If you have a bunion deformity, one of the accompanying issues that may occur is bursitis. What is it exactly, and what kind of bunion bursitis symptoms can you expect? We’ve talked about this issue in our blog post.
What Exactly Is Bunion Bursitis?
Bursa is a semi-compressible sac filled with fluid that is located in various parts of the body. This structure is designed for cushioning – it’s located between tendons and bones, and it facilitates the movement of a joint. When there is a stressor of some kind, and the bursa is irritated, the inflammation develops – that’s what bursitis is.
The inflammation of the bursa sac is most commonly caused by the overuse of the joint or repetitive movements such as running or cycling. There are many risk factors for this condition, and one of them is a hallux valgus, otherwise known as a bunion deformity.
Bursitis can also develop when a person has a tailor’s bunion (bunion located at the joint of the little toe). The poor motion range that occurs when you have a bunion results in an increased load on the bursa sac, which then becomes inflamed.
What Are the Most Common Symptoms?
When should you suspect you have bunion-related bursitis? Of course, you need to have a visible bony protrusion on the base of the big toe to qualify for this, but there are other symptoms that point to bursitis.
Keep in mind that most of these can be associated with a bunion and don’t necessarily mean inflammation of the bursa sac – it’s best to consult with a doctor who can determine what the problem is exactly.
Swelling in the Bunion Area
If you notice swelling in the area where your bunion is, that may be a sign you have bursitis. The inflammation of the bursa sac can lead to excessive production of fluid in the sac, which then becomes swollen.
Pain and Tenderness on and Around the Bunion
Pain is a common sign of inflammation, but it doesn’t necessarily mean that you have bursitis. In most cases, bunions are painful on their own, so this symptom may not mean anything different than regular bunion pain.
Warmth and Redness of the Bunion
Warmth and redness always come with inflammation, so you may notice that the skin on top of your bunion and around it looks red. Keep in mind that these symptoms occur in infections as well – you should visit your foot doctor to rule it out.
Limited Range of Motion in the Toe
When there’s inflammation with pain and swelling in your big toe joint, it’s easy to understand that the mobility of the toe will be compromised. Still, this usually happens when you have a severe bunion anyway, but if the range of motion becomes even more limited, this can point to bursitis.
When Should You Seek Medical Attention?
If you have signs of bunion development, it’s wise to reach out to your podiatrist for a consultation and pain management strategies. Even though the symptoms may not be affecting your day-to-day life too much for now, they likely will at some point – bunions progress over time. Bursitis is just one of the complications that can occur – if you suspect you have it, get in touch with your doctor. They will know how to treat this common condition.
Contact Your Doctor in Miami to Help You With Bunion Bursitis
Don’t put up with pain and other unpleasant symptoms that come with bunions and bunion bursitis – you can easily manage them if you have a skilled podiatrist by your side. Our team of excellent doctors at Luxe Foot Surgery clinic in Miami is more than capable of treating bunion bursitis – we see that condition all the time. Contact us to book your free first consultation, and we’ll provide stellar treatment results.
References
- The Feet People – Bursitis
