How to distinguish a bunion from a normal foot

A bunion is a common forefoot deformity that manifests as a tilting of the bunion to the outside of the foot and pronation of the first metatarsal. Comparison of a bunionized foot to a normal foot is often made in terms of both clinical presentation and imaging. In terms of clinical presentation, the bunion in patients with bunion is commonly characterized by bony growths at the metatarsophalangeal joints of the big toe, and redness and swelling of the skin. The prominence of the 1st metatarsal head often forms a bursa and bursitis due to uncomfortable friction from shoes. Calluses, commonly known as calluses, are visible on the metatarsal surfaces of the 2nd and 3rd metatarsal heads. Calluses or corns may form on the dorsal aspect of the proximal interphalangeal joint of the second toe due to friction with the shoe insert. Imaging of the bunion angle and the intermetatarsal angle of the 1st and 2nd metatarsal bones is the most common way to visualize the condition. The average bunion angle in a normal person is 10.1° to 10.6°, while in patients with bunions, it can reach 15° or more. On the other hand, the 1st and 2nd intermetatarsal angles are 8.3° in normal males and 9.9° in normal females, while bunions can be greater than 10°. Comparison of bunion and normal foot is mainly based on the bunion angle and the 1st and 2nd intermetatarsal angles obtained from radiographs of the bunion, redness, callus, and other manifestations. When significant discomfort occurs, it is important to seek medical advice and treatment as prescribed by your doctor.