What causes a Bunion?

Bunions are caused by biomechanical stresses placed on the toe in such a way that it alters the alignment of the joint over time. They are made worse by wearing ill-fitting shoes, high heels (because they compress and squash up your toes), arthritic conditions and traumatic toe injuries. Bunions tend to run in families so taking a look at your parent’s feet can often be a window into the future!

Diagnosis

Podiatrists can generally diagnose a bunion following a thorough clinical assessment. X-rays may be required to determine the level of deformity of the joint.

How to treat Bunion's

Our approach to the treatment of bunions is firstly to reduce symptoms and then to slow the progression (stop it from getting worse).

Treatment options include:
– Making changes to footwear. Supportive shoes with a wide toe area to avoid any compressive forces on the toes.
– Strengthening and stretching exercises to help with stability of the big toe joint and surrounding structures.
– Interdigital wedges to reduce pressure on adjacent toes.
– Orthotics to improve foot position and reduce bunion-forming-forces that are contributing to malalignment of the toe

While it is possible to slow the formation of a bunion using the above treatment options, unfortunately, once a bunion has formed the only method by which to correct it is surgery. Our podiatrists have an excellent working relationship with podiatric and orthopaedic surgeons in the area and can refer you on if this is an option you would like to explore.