Master, Doctor Tran Ngoc Chon, with the Department of Orthopedic Trauma at Tam Anh General Hospital TP HCM, defines a bunion as a condition where the big toe angles towards the other toes on the same foot, causing the joint bone at its base to protrude. This condition often affects individuals who regularly wear high heels, pointed-toe shoes, or shoes that are too small. Ill-fitting footwear compresses the toes and shifts the body's weight onto the big toe joint. Despite their size, these joints endure significant pressure, which over time leads to damage, pain, and toe deformity.

Bunions can also stem from poorly managed inflammatory joint diseases, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. These conditions degrade joint structures and harm components such as articular cartilage, ligaments, and synovial membranes. They can also foster bone spur formation, leading to inflammation, pain, stiffness, and deformity of the big toe joint.

Individuals with a family history of foot bone structural issues, loose ligaments, or flat feet face a higher risk of developing bunions. These congenital abnormalities lay the groundwork for toe axis misalignment.

Doctor Ngoc Chon explains some joint conditions that can cause bunions. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Untreated bunions can lead to several complications. The most common is bursitis, which causes pain, redness, swelling, and walking difficulty. This complication arises when the protruding big toe joint is compressed and rubs against footwear during movement. Prolonged joint misalignment can foster bone spur formation, leading to joint stiffness and chronic pain. The displaced big toe can also crowd and deform other toes, particularly the adjacent one.

Mild bunions can be treated with pain relievers, anti-inflammatory medications, or cold compresses to reduce swelling and pain. If necessary, patients may wear a big toe splint to realign the toe. This method reduces tension on tendons and muscles, increases big toe flexibility, alleviates pressure on other toes, lessens pain, and supports the entire foot during movement.

For more severe cases, doctors may consider corrective osteotomy surgery to reposition the big toe bone to its natural alignment, correcting the deformity. Post-surgery, patients can walk comfortably and improve mobility.

Doctor Chon (center) performs toe correction surgery for a patient. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

According to Doctor Chon, bunions are not a dangerous condition but can cause pain and impact daily activities. Patients should proactively prevent them by wearing appropriate footwear and using shoe inserts or anti-friction pads if needed. Seek medical attention immediately upon noticing unusual symptoms or warning signs of bunions to ensure timely treatment and prevent mobility issues.

Phi Hong