Bunions

Other Treatment

A bunion (hallux valgus) is an enlargement of bone or tissue around the joint at the base of the big toe (metatarsophalangeal joint). Treatment options for bunions include arch supports, custom-made orthotics, and custom-made shoes. All of these temporarily change the way the bones, muscles, and ligaments of the foot work together. They will not cure the bunion, but they may help relieve some structural problems that are contributing to it by:

• Reducing pressure on the big toe joint.
• Preventing too much rolling inward of the foot (excessive pronation) during walking or running. Excessive foot pronation has been linked to bunion formation.
• Helping keep the toe joint in a more normal alignment and controlling the shortening of ligaments and other tissues that may be pulling the joint out of alignment.

Arch supports are available without a prescription. Orthotics and custom-made shoes are available with a prescription and are professionally fitted to your foot.

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Author:	Shannon Erstad, MBA/MPH	Last Updated: March 6, 2008
Medical Review:	William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine Gavin W.G. Chalmers, DPM - Podiatry and Podiatric Surgery
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