Bursitis of the big toe: causes, symptoms and methods of treatment

Bursitis of the toe is a problem that often occurs in modern pediatrics. A similar disease is associated with abnormal development of the skeleton and a gradual deviation of the joint of the thumb to the outside. Thus, a bulge is formed on the lateral surface of the foot, which causes a lot of inconvenience and discomfort to the person. So why does such a deformation arise and are there effective methods for eliminating it?

Bursitis of the big toe and their causes

Most experts agree that bursitis is directly related to the genetic heredity of a person. As already mentioned, the disease is caused not by the deformation of the bones themselves, but by the incorrect location of the joint. This leads to the formation of a fairly noticeable cone on the lateral surface of the foot, with the phalanges of the big toe deflected in the opposite direction. It is also noted that the bunion of the big toe often develops against the background of flat feet. Risk factors can also be attributed to the constant wearing of uncomfortable shoes with a narrow toe - in such shoes, the fingers are tightly pressed against each other, which creates excellent conditions for the curvature of the joint.

In some cases, bursitis develops with congenital or acquired weakness of the joints (for example, with arthritis and other diseases).

Bursitis of the toe: the main symptoms

To notice the appearance of the disease is quite simple - the joint of the big toe gradually begins to bulge outward, forming a rather noticeable bump. And if the initial stages of deformation proceed without pain and discomfort, complications are possible in the future. First, people often complain of severe pain while walking or any other physical activity. In some cases, the skin can be seen corns, formed as a result of friction about the material of the shoe.

Secondly, bursitis is often accompanied by inflammation of the joint bag. In such cases, the pain becomes stronger. In addition, the skin over the joint swells, reddens, becomes hot to the touch. In any case, it is extremely important to consult a doctor at the initial stages of the disease, when orthopedic correction is still possible.

Bunion of thumb: treatment

Of course, for the beginning the doctor will appoint a series of tests and examinations. In particular, the bursitis of the big toe requires radiographic examination. Only then can the right treatment be prescribed.

In the initial stages, conservative methods can be effective. In such cases it is necessary to abandon shoes with narrow noses and high heels, as this only aggravates the situation. The doctor will definitely pick up a special orthopedic footwear, with which you can redistribute the load and relieve tension from the joints of the sick fingers. Wearing special shoes or at least orthopedic insoles will help to slow down or completely stop the process of further deformation.

Of course, in the presence of inflammatory process and severe pain, doctors prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs, sometimes made on the basis of steroids.

Unfortunately, similar methods are not suitable for all patients diagnosed with "bunion of the big toe". Sometimes the only possible way out. During the procedure, the doctor removes the bursitis and reconstructs the bones of the thumb so that they fit together at a natural angle. Of course, even after a successful operation, the patient is obliged to select shoes responsibly and avoid excessive loads.