It turns out there are several foot problems that look like bunions but are not.
A bunion is a bony prominence causing an enlargement on the side of the big toe.
Bunions are not bone growths.
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Because bunions come in various sizes, it’s not always clear if the problem is a bunion.
Big Toe Joint Arthritis
Arthritis of the big toe joint is the most common bunion look-alike.
These bone spurs can be quite large and painful.
Reproduced with permission from © DermNet New Zealandwww.dermnetnz.org2023.
The skin overlying the bone spurs can become red and inflamed, just like a bunion.
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.
Ganglion Cyst
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Reproduced with permission from DermNet New Zealandwww.dermnetnz.org2023.
Ganglion cysts are firm, fluid-filled sacs that occur all over the body.
When they occur around the big toe joint, they can be confused with a bunion.
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.
Cysts can be painful.
Somtimes an over-the-counter painkiller can provide relief.
Another option is in-office procedure involving aspiration (sometimes involving a corticosteroid injection).
Bunions are also known to get reddish in color from the direct pressure of the bunion within a shoe.
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.
Bunions are not bone growths.
However, the underlying bone may be enlarged and prominent, giving the appearance of a bunion.
X-rays can easily identify whether there is a bony enlargement.
People with bunions are more susceptible to developing a bursa.
Bunions can worsen over time, causing bursitis and calluses.
Ortho Virginia.Arthritis of the big toe (hallux rigidus): What are my treatment options?
American Society for Surgery of the Hand.Ganglion cyst.
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases.Gout.
University Foot and Ankle Institute.Bursitis of the foot.
2017;230(6):743-751. doi:10.1111%2Fjoa.12607
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.Bunions.
