bunions

A bunion, also known as hallux valgus, is an outward deformity of the foot's metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint which connects the big toe to the foot. The rear tarsametatarsal joint that holds the metatarsal bone in a straight-ahead position weakens, the metatarsal moves outward plus rotates 90 degrees bringing the sesamoids up against the adjacent toe. This results in the head of the metatarsal bulging outward, and the big toe then bends inward toward the other toes. The joint often becomes red and painful due to rubbing in a cramped shoe. The onset of bunions is typically gradual. Joint complications may include bursitis or arthritis. A similar condition of the little toe is referred to as a bunionette.

Treatment may include proper shoes, orthotics, or NSAIDs. If this is not effective for improving symptoms, surgery may be performed. Since 2020, many new and highly effective surgical techniques for bunion correction have been developed. Bunions exist in about 23% of adults. Females are affected more often than males. Usual age of onset is between 20 and 50 years old. The condition also becomes more common with age. It was first clearly described in 1870. Archaeologists have identified a high incidence of bunions in skeletons from 14th- and 15th-century England, coinciding with a fashion for pointy shoes.

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