Bunion
A bunion is a bony deformity of the joint at the base of the big toe. This joint is known as the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint. The medical name for a bunion is hallux valgus.
Symptoms
- a swollen, bony bump on the outside edge of the foot
- pain, tenderness and swelling over big toe joint that is made worse by pressure from wearing shoes
- big toe turned outwards at an angle towards other toes
- hard, callused and red skin caused by big toe and second toe overlapping
- sore skin over the top of the bunion changes to the overall shape of the foot
Causes
It is not known exactly what causes bunions, but wearing badly fitting shoes is thought to make the condition worse.
Research also suggests that bunions may run in families. It is thought that bunions are more likely to occur in people who have unusually flexible joints and that this flexibility may be inherited.
In some cases, certain health conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis and gout, may also be responsible for the formation of bunions. These conditions cause pain and inflammation in the joints
Products that may help
- Devil’s Claw gel and capsules may help reduce inflammation
- Comfrey Oil when rubbed in may help combat the inflammation
- Essential Oils Lavender and Geranium massage feet after soaking
- Turmeric/Bromelain reported to help the inflammation
