Bunions

Introduction

Valgus malformation of the great toe, commonly known as a bunion, is a very common and potentially painful and debilitating condition of unclear aetiology.

NOTE: The exact aetiology is unclear, likely multifactorial. There is insufficient evidence to support common belief that unaccommodating shoes (narrow toe box, high heels) cause hallux deformity.

Management

NOTE: There is little evidence that conservative treatments are useful for the management of hallux valgus deformity.

• Conservative (nonsurgical) treatment cannot reverse deformity and not likely to prevent progression.

External Links

• UpToDate - Hallux Valgus Deformity (Bunion) in Adults
  
• American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons - Bunions
  
• Diagnosis and treatment of first metatarsophalangeal joint disorders. Section 1: Hallux valgus, 2003