Bunion
1. [noun] hallux Valgus (bunion) A bunion is a bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of your big toe or is an abnormal enlargement of the joint (the first metatarsophalangeal joint, or MTPJ) at the base of the great or big toe (hallux). It forms when your big toe pushes against your next toe, forcing the joint of your big toe to get bigger and stick out. The skin over the bunion might be red and sore. Wearing tight, narrow shoes might cause bunions or make them worse. Bunions also can develop as a result of an inherited structural defect, stress on your foot or a medical condition, such as arthritis. See https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bunions/symptoms-causes/syc-20354799 ; Accessed May 2 2019
Source: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bunions/symptoms-causes/syc-20354799
Frequently Asked Questions
How can everyday shoe choices influence the development of a bunion?
Choosing shoes that are narrow or tight often pushes the big toe toward the adjacent toe. This pressure can gradually lead to a misalignment and the bony prominence at the base of the big toe.
What does the term 'hallux valgus' reveal about this foot condition?
In the term hallux valgus, 'hallux' refers to the big toe and 'valgus' indicates an outward angulation. This etymology helps visualize how the big toe shifts laterally compared to its normal alignment.
How does a bunion differ from other typical foot alignment issues?
A bunion specifically involves the enlargement of the joint at the big toe's base due to inward pressure from the toe. This is distinct from other issues like flat feet or high arches, which relate more to overall foot structure.