where does the word “bunion” come from?

3 Responses to where does the word “bunion” come from?

1. Tyra B says:

   February 8, 2010 at 6:27 am

   The word bunion comes from the Latin bunio (turnip). Whoever named this ugly and very common foot deformity must have concluded that it looked like the equally unattractive vegetable. Sadly, it does.

   Some additional info:
   A bunion is an enlargement of bone or tissue around the joint at the base of the big toe. It makes the big toe bend toward and often overlap the other toes. When this happens, the toes of the foot are forced sideways. Instead of facing forward, the way they’re supposed to, they point at an angle to the right or left, depending on the foot.

   Also called a hallux valgus, a bunion can cause the adjacent toes to contract. Frequently the toe immediately beside the big toe becomes almost clawlike, forming a hammertoe, and a callus forms underneath and between the two toes.

   Bunions can make shopping for shoes an exercise in frustration. The deformity also can turn into a chronic and debilitating problem, becoming swollen and painful. Ultimately, if the pain becomes too severe, surgery may be necessary.
2. jlocke38 says:

   February 8, 2010 at 6:27 am

   It was Paul’s last name.
3. oceanlady580 says:

   February 8, 2010 at 6:27 am

   a painful swelling inflamed of the bursa at the first joint of the big toe caratarized by enlargement of the joint and lateral displacement of the toe