Find relief and avoid surgery with comprehensive podiatry care.
A bunion, also known as a hallux abducto valgus, is a large bump on the inside of the foot at the base of the big toe. This happens when the metatarsal bone of the big toe moves away from the rest of the foot. This creates a protrusion at the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint as the rest of the big toe bends towards the smaller toes.
There are several reasons why bunions may occur. These include:
Injuries or Surgery
Bunions may develop after an injury to the foot or after surgery in the region. This may be due to factors such as muscle weakness or joint alignment.
Congenital Deformity
There may be a deformity present at birth that has the potential to cause bunions at some point during life.
Flat Feet
If you have low aches or your feet roll inwards as you walk, you may be at an increased risk of developing bunions due to the increased load on your big toe and joint. Custom orthotics may assist in preventing or improving bunions.
Genetics
There does appear to be a link within families for a genetic predisposition to bunions.
Chronic Health Conditions
Certain medical issues that involve joint inflammation, such as rheumatoid arthritis, may lead to a bunion.
Footwear Choices
Shoes that are too narrow or short for your feet can create pressure on the big toe joint and may contribute to shifting the toes’ positions. Heels higher than 3 inches or completely flat shoes may also cause bunions. This is why it is so important to have guidance and wear shoes that work well for your unique feet.
Because the bones and joints are misaligned, bunions can result in mild to severe discomfort and pain in the surrounding area. As the bones move further out of alignment, the soft tissues may become overstretched or tight, irritated, or inflamed. This may result in:
As the big toe’s position changes and toes begin to rub against each other or footwear and create pressure, calluses, corns, or ingrown toenails may also develop. Hammer toes and arthritis may also be involved when bunions worsen.
Some cases of bunions may be so severe or may be impacting other aspects significantly enough that a podiatric surgeon may carry out foot surgery to realign the big toe joint and relieve pain and discomfort. The good news is that there are several non-surgical ways in which mild to moderate bunions may be improved or corrected.
Non-surgical treatment may include:
How is a bunion diagnosed?
Your podiatrist will fully assess your feet, symptoms, and relevant background to identify the cause of your issue. You may need to visit your GP to organise a referral for an x-ray to determine the severity of the bunion.
Will I eventually have to have surgery?
Surgery for bunions is generally seen as a last resort and is usually only done for extreme cases. We will work with you to identify the most suitable non-surgical treatment options for your requirements to help reduce your foot pain, take the pressure off your joints, and make walking and wearing shoes easier again.
What are hammer toes?
Bunions are sometimes linked to hammer toes. This condition involves a bend in the middle joint of the second, third, or fourth toes and can be improved with non-surgical care.
The team at the Capital Podiatry clinic is passionate about treating foot-related pain and mobility issues. We are committed to supporting each patient towards better health, functionality, and well-being. We look forward to meeting and supporting you.
We Treat The Underlying Factors
The deformity and discomfort that result from a bunion may worsen significantly if you do not treat the related issues. Your podiatrist will identify contributing factors to improve the condition from the foundation rather than the surface level.
We Help You Return to Normal Activities
When it comes to bunions, often pain radiates to other areas of the foot, potentially impacting your day-to-day activities significantly. By seeking professional support, you may experience less pain and more movement, enabling you to do what you love and need to do.
We Are Highly Experienced Podiatrists
Our team is qualified and experienced in treating bunions and other foot and lower-limb-related conditions and concerns. We utilise evidence-based knowledge, skills, and resources to improve your foot health.
Bunions can be uncomfortable and painful but you do not have to put up with them unassisted. If you are dealing with a bunion, please contact our friendly team to organise an initial consultation. Your podiatrist will work with you to improve your comfort and functionality and help you put into practice good foot health habits. We look forward to supporting you.