ABOUT BUNIONS
What is a Bunion?
Hallux abductovalgus valgus (HAV) is a common deformity characterised by the progressive deviation of the big toe at the joint. Over years, the big toe starts to progressively shift towards the smaller toes. A prominence occurs on the inside of the big toe joint. Patients commonly describe a painful soft-tissue prominence, the bunion. Over this period, the big toe starts to move towards the lesser toes, creating a wider foot requiring greater depth – making it harder to fit into shoes and the feet looking less attractive. Lastly with the change in alignment, mild to severe arthritis may develop causing more big toe joint pain.
BUNION SYMPTOMS
Symptoms of a Bunion
Recognising the symptoms of a bunion is the first step toward seeking appropriate care. Various symptoms can manifest, with big toe pain often being a primary complaint. Common symptoms of a bunion can include:
Big Toe Pain
Dealing with bunions often leads to big toe pain Adelaide residents find particularly bothersome. This discomfort can range from a mild annoyance to significant, debilitating ache. This foot pain is often exacerbated when wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes causing shoe pressure, and it may be accompanied by swelling and redness around the affected joint. Gout, a type of arthritis, is also known for causing sharp pain, swelling, and redness in the big toe joint.
Visible Bump
A more noticeable sign of a bunion is the visible bump that appears on the side of your foot, at the base of the big toe. This protrusion is more than just an aesthetic concern; it’s an indication of underlying joint misalignment.
Restricted Toe Movement
As a bunion progresses, you may notice reduced mobility in your big toe. This limitation can particularly affect your gait, specifically when you’re pushing off the ground while walking. It can make everyday activities more challenging and may start to influence your choice of footwear.
Corns and Calluses
Due to changes in the foot shape and mechanics, corns or calluses may develop. These thickened areas of skin can be uncomfortable or painful, particularly when pressure is applied, such as when standing or walking for extended periods.
General Foot Soreness
Apart from localised big toe symptoms, a bunion can cause general foot soreness. This discomfort may intensify after long periods on your feet and could impact your overall quality of life.
If you experience big toe pain or any of the above symptoms, it’s crucial to consult a qualified podiatrist for a comprehensive assessment and a tailored treatment strategy. Early intervention can help manage symptoms more effectively.
DEALING WITH BUNIONS
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Bunions
Many people choose to ignore the bunion and hide them in their shoes out of sight as they may look unattractive. However, bunions are more than just a cosmetic concern — they are a progressive foot deformity that can lead to ongoing discomfort and mobility problems if not addressed early. A bunion arises when the joint beneath the big toe moves out of alignment, causing the toe to drift towards the others, creating a prominent bump on the side of the foot.
This change in alignment can lead to swelling, discomfort, and trouble fitting into footwear. Without treatment, a bunion may worsen over time, causing issues like bursitis, arthritis, and painful corns or calluses from ongoing pressure and rubbing. Leaving a bunion untreated can worsen these issues, potentially leading to permanent changes and chronic discomfort. Early medical attention is important, as it can help manage symptoms and slow the progression of the deformity. Conservative non-surgical bunion correction techniques that can be used for treatment may include exercises, footwear changes, supportive devices and more, to restore proper alignment and reduce pain. Treating a bunion in it’s early stages can greatly enhance foot function and help preserve your mobility and overall quality of life.
What Causes a Bunion?
Stages of a Bunion
Treating a Bunion
Ignore
‘A lot of people choose to ignore their bunion, covering it up with shoes despite its appearance. Sometimes, the bunion might be painless or only slightly painful, which can lead some individuals to tolerate significant big toe discomfort. They might also ignore how the big toe begins to shift under the second toe or third toe. While this might seem manageable in the short term, the bunion will inevitably progress, and long-term, it becomes more difficult to treat conservatively, often requiring surgery.’
Surgical
‘Although many people believe surgery is the only option for bunions, recent keyhole surgery advancements in Adelaide offer a less invasive approach. While surgery is the only way to remove the bony lump, pain reduction and realignment can often be achieved with conservative methods. However, surgery remains invasive, with recovery time and potential risks. We’re happy to refer you to a surgeon who we feel will provide the best approach for your situation.’
Conservative Treatment
‘There are multiple non-surgical treatments for bunions that we utilise at the Adelaide Bunion Clinic, such as exercises, dry needling, foot mobilisation, cold laser therapy, and orthotics. These treatments address the foot flattening and misalignment of the big toe joint. Most patients experience a reduction in pain and are able to avoid surgery. If you follow the treatment plan, you may notice your big toe straightening. However, the bony lump can only be surgically removed. If pain relief and avoiding surgery are your priorities, this is the recommended treatment.’
Treatment Techniques
There are five techniques we use to treat bunions conservatively:
