Bunions

Understanding bunions

A bunion is a bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of the big toe, occurring when the bones in the front part of the foot shift out of place. This misalignment causes the tip of the big toe to pull toward the smaller toes, forcing the joint to protrude. While genetics often play a role, bunions can be aggravated by ill-fitting footwear or repetitive stress. Assessing the structural alignment of the foot is the first step toward managing pain and preventing the deformity from progressing.

Treatment and management

Managing a bunion focuses on relieving pressure and restoring comfortable movement. Our podiatrists prioritize non-surgical interventions to keep you active and pain-free. Your personalized treatment plan may include:

• Custom orthotics to improve foot mechanics and redistribute weight away from the joint
• Joint mobilisations to alleviate stiffness and improve your range of motion
• Footwear advice to help you select shoes with appropriate width and support
• Padding and strapping to reduce friction and provide immediate symptomatic relief
• Long-term monitoring to determine if surgical intervention is necessary for structural correction