FIP : Federation Internationale des Podologues

What are bunions?

Definition

A bunion is an enlargement at the base of the big toe caused by a misalignment of the joint. It may be swollen, tender and painful with the wearing of footgear.

Statistics

•	8 out of 1000 males have a bunion
•	38 out of 1000 females have a bunion
•	55 out of 1000 people over the age of 65 or older have a bunion
•	63% of patients with bunions see a Podiatrist
•	1% of entire adult population has had a bunion
•	4% of people over the age of 65 have had a bunion

Causes

•	Heredity
•	Biomechanical abnormalities
•	Neuromuscular disorders
•	Inflammatory joint disease (arthritis)
•	Trauma
•	Congenital deformities

What can you do?

•	Wear a shoe with good support and wide toe box
•	Apply cold compresses
•	Soak the foot in lukewarm water to relieve pain
•	Use over-the-counter foot pads

What might a podiatrist do?

•	Perform a physical examination of the foot
•	Perform X-ray evaluation
•	Recommend padding or taping
•	Prescribe orthotics as needed
•	Perform surgery when indicated



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