What is a bunion?
A 'bunion' or hallux valgus refers to the condition in which the big toe is angled excessively towards the second toe, rather than pointing forwards in a straight line. Over time, this excessive angle gives the appearance of a 'bump' on the inside of the big toe joint. This bump is called a bunion.
What are the symptoms of a bunion?
Bunions can appear red and swollen and can sometimes cause pain. The amount of pain often depends on the type of footwear being worn, the amount and type of activity a person does and how excessive the big toe is pointing towards the second toe. Thick, hard skin (callus) or corns may appear over the bunion due to excessive pressure from footwear. It may also be difficult to find footwear that is wide enough to accommodate the enlarged joint.
What are the causes of a bunion?
There are a number of reasons a bunion may occur. The main cause is often shoes that do not fit properly. Tight, narrow, high heeled shoes cause great strain on the big toe joint. Due to this style of shoe commonly being worn by women, this makes the condition more common in women than men. There is also evidence to suggest that bunions run in families, often due to an inherited biomechanical problem. Bunions can be caused or made worse by arthritis in the joint.
What should I do if I have a bunion?
If you have a bunion then an assessment by a podiatrist is necessary. Often bunions can be managed conservatively by our podiatrists, though some may require a referral for surgical correction.
What shouldn't I do if I have a bunion?
Over time, bunions usually increase in size and become more painful. It is difficult to predict how fast this will occur. Certain types of activity should be reviewed and an alternative form of exercise may be preferable. High heeled and / or poorly fitting footwear should also be avoided as these can exacerbate symptoms.
Could there be any long-term effects from a bunion?
There is a danger that the smaller toes may be affected as a result of a bunion, due to the malalignment of the big toe joint. The little toes often change shape or start to overlap. A fluid-filled sac called a bursa may also develop under the skin over the bunion which can be very painful. Early conservative management with podiatry can help to slow the progression of the condition, though surgery may be the preferred option to resolve the problem.
Podiatry treatment for bunions
Advice about suitable footwear can be provided by a podiatrist to help to slow the progression of the condition and make it more comfortable. Corns or callus that may appear over the bunion can be removed by your podiatrist. Silicone gel appliances can be provided to cushion and protect the bunion. If these conservative treatments provide an inadequate level of relief, a surgical referral can be completed by your podiatrist.