Bunion Treatment
A bunion, known medically as hallux valgus, is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe when the joint drifts out of alignment and the big toe angles towards the others. Bunions develop gradually and can become painful, make shoes uncomfortable, and lead to other problems such as corns and calluses.
What Is a Bunion?
A bunion, also known as hallux valgus, is a bony prominence that develops at the base of the big toe. As the condition progresses, the big toe gradually drifts towards the second toe, causing the joint at its base to become more prominent.
Bunions usually develop gradually over many years. While the deformity itself cannot usually be reversed without surgery, many people successfully manage their symptoms with conservative podiatry treatment.
What Causes Bunions?
Bunions develop due to a combination of genetic and mechanical factors. Although footwear can aggravate symptoms, it is not usually the sole cause.
Factors that may contribute include:
- Family history of bunions
- Flat feet or abnormal foot mechanics
- Hypermobility (loose joints)
- Arthritis
- Certain inflammatory conditions
- Previous foot injuries
- Foot structure inherited from parents
- Wearing narrow or poorly fitting shoes that increase pressure on the joint
Symptoms of Bunions
Symptoms vary depending on the severity of the condition and may include:
- A noticeable bump on the side of the big toe joint
- Pain around the base of the big toe
- Swelling and redness
- Difficulty wearing certain shoes
- Corns or calluses between the first and second toes
- Stiffness in the big toe joint
- Pain when walking or standing
- The big toe crossing over or under the second toe in more advanced cases
Some people have a large bunion with little discomfort, while others experience significant pain even with a relatively small deformity.
How We Diagnose Bunions
At Sussex Total Foot Care, we carry out a comprehensive assessment to determine how your bunion is affecting your foot function.
Your appointment includes:
- Discussion of your symptoms and medical history
- Examination of the bunion and surrounding joints
- Assessment of foot posture
- Biomechanical assessment
- Gait (walking) analysis
- Footwear assessment
- Assessment of joint movement and flexibility
If necessary, we may recommend X-rays to assess the severity of the bunion and any associated arthritis or joint changes.
Bunion Treatments
Treatment is focused on reducing pain, improving function, and slowing progression where possible.
Your personalised treatment plan may include:
Footwear Advice
Choosing shoes with a wider toe box and appropriate support can reduce pressure on the bunion and improve comfort.
Orthotic Insoles
Where abnormal foot mechanics contribute to the development or progression of a bunion, orthotic insoles may improve foot function and reduce stress on the affected joint.
Padding and Pressure Relief
Protective padding or toe spacers may help reduce friction and relieve pressure from footwear.
Corn and Callus Treatment
If corns or calluses have developed because of the bunion, professional podiatry treatment can provide relief and improve comfort.
Exercise Rehabilitation
Exercises to maintain joint mobility and strengthen the muscles around the foot may improve function and reduce stiffness.
Advice on Activity Modification
If your symptoms worsen during certain activities, we can recommend practical strategies to keep you active while reducing pain.
Surgical Referral
If conservative treatment no longer provides adequate relief and the bunion significantly affects your quality of life, we can discuss referral to an orthopaedic foot and ankle specialist to explore surgical options.
Why Choose Sussex Total Foot Care?
Patients across Worthing and West Sussex choose Sussex Total Foot Care because we provide:
- HCPC-registered podiatrists
- Comprehensive bunion assessments
- Evidence-based treatment recommendations
- Expert biomechanical assessment
- Personalised management plans
- Friendly, patient-focused care
- Honest advice on both conservative and surgical treatment options
Our aim is to reduce your pain, improve your mobility, and help you stay active with the least invasive treatment appropriate for your condition.
Bunion FAQs
Can orthotics get rid of a bunion?
No treatment other than surgery removes a bunion, but orthotics and good footwear can reduce pain, improve function and help slow progression.
Do I need surgery?
Many people manage bunions well without surgery. Surgery is generally reserved for severe or very painful cases, and we can advise on referral if needed.
What shoes are best with a bunion?
Shoes with a wide, deep toe box and good support take pressure off the joint. We will give you specific footwear advice.
Book an Assessment in Worthing
Arrange your appointment online through our booking system or contact the clinic.