Bunions

The primary difference between a bunion and a bunionette is location. A bunion is a bump that forms on the inside of the foot at the base of the big toe, as the toe drifts toward the second digit. A bunionette is the reverse: a bump forms at the outside of the foot at the base of the pinky toe, as the pinky toe drifts towards the fourth digit.

Both conditions share similar causes (faulty foot structures exacerbated by narrow or unsupportive footwear), similar symptoms (pain, swelling, and risk of complications like corns and blisters), and similar treatment methods.

There’s another similarity: both conditions are treated by the experts at Family Foot and Ankle Center. If you notice a bump forming at the base of your first or fifth digit, give us a call at (513) 728-4800 or (859) 282-1572 and schedule an appointment at one of our Greater Cincinnati locations.

This is really a two-part answer, and it involves both genetics and lifestyle.

Many bunions can be traced back to structural faults. Your feet are designed to spread the force of your body weight evenly across the sole, but flat feet, unusual bone structure, and other conditions—many of which are inherited—can put the joint at the base of your big toe under extra stress, pushing it out of place.

At the same time, wearing high heels or ill-fitting shoes that restrict toe movement can exacerbate the forces on weakened joints, triggering bunion formation as well. That’s one reason why bunions are much more common in women than men.

If you’re experiencing pain and wake up saying “I wish I didn’t have to deal with this bump on my big toe,” don’t wait—call the experts at Family Foot and Ankle Center. We have six locations in Greater Cincinnati to serve you. Call (513) 728-4800 for one of our Ohio-based offices, or (859) 282-1572 for Kentucky.