BUNION/HALLUX VALGUS

Definition: An enlargement behind the big toe caused by bone enlargement or movement. Bunions are most often inherited but can be aggravated by tight shoes or certain activities. They’re quite often progressive and continue to get worse. Other foot problems also result from them. Conservative are consists of modifying shoe gear or insoles in shoes. Surgical correction of the deformity is often done as an outpatient procedure. Following surgery you may be in a walking cast or special shoe for several weeks. A similar disease is degenerative joint disease, which causes severe limitation of first joint. This is often corrected with an artificial joint made of plastic, titanium or steel.