A bunion is a bony prominence causing an enlargement on the side of the big toe. Bunions are not bone growths. Rather, they occur from a malalignment of the big toe joint that causes the bone to push outwards. Bunion surgery involves repositioning the out-of-place bones.
Because bunions come in various sizes, it’s not always clear if the problem is a bunion. So before you sign up for a bunionectomy, learn about what other conditions masquerade as bunions and how to treat these foot problems.
These bone spurs can be quite large and painful. The skin overlying the bone spurs can become red and inflamed, just like a bunion. Bone spurs with arthritis tend to occur on the top of the big toe joint, which is different from bunions, where the bony prominence is on the side.
Bunions, however, can occur along with arthritis of the big toe joint. X-rays would help determine the extent of the arthritis and how/if it contributes to bunion pain.
Ganglions can be distinguished from bunions by feel since ganglions are softer to the touch. Because ganglions are fluid-filled, they will “light up” when they are transilluminated. This is a test that shines light on a body part to check for abnormalities.
Gout is a condition in which the big toe joint (and other joints, too) develop internal crystals from an overabundance of uric acid in one’s bloodstream. These sharp crystals cause intense pain in the big toe joint.
Sometimes, gout is difficult to diagnose because blood tests may be normal. X-rays of the big toe joint may present gouty changes of the joint (known as gouty arthritis).
Gout flare-ups can be quickly resolved with medication and/or a steroid injection.
It’s common to see bony enlargements that occur with bunions, but they also occur when a bunion is absent. X-rays can easily identify whether there is a bony enlargement.
While bunion surgery involves repositioning the malaligned bones, most procedures also involve shaving away any bony prominence at the big toe joint.
A bursa at the big toe joint is nothing more than trapped inflammatory fluid between the skin and underlying bone. People with bunions are more susceptible to developing a bursa.
