Bunions

A bunion, also known as hallux valgus, is when your big toe turns towards your other toes forming a bony lump on the side of your foot. Sometimes a soft swelling will develop over the lump called bursitis. Sometimes a smaller bunion can appear on your little toe.

In most cases, it may not be obvious why a bunion has formed, but certain things increase your risk of getting them including:

• Activities such as rock climbing or ballet
• Being a woman
• Family history of bunions
• Foot abnormalities
• Joint problems such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis
• Wearing tight-fitting or high heeled shoes

If you have a bunion, you may notice:

• Your big toe pointing at your other toes
• Difficulty moving your toe or foot
• Foot pain
• Difficulty finding shoes that fit and are comfortable
• Hard lumps at the base of your big toe
• Pain caused by increased pressure on the ball of your foot (called metatarsalgia)
• Red and sore skin over the lump

You might also develop corns or calluses around your big toe.

Although bunions often require no medical treatment, see your GP or a doctor who specialises in treating foot disorders (podiatrist or orthopaedic foot specialist) if you have:

• Persistent big toe or foot pain
• A visible bump on your big toe joint
• Decreased movement of your big toe or foot
• Difficulty finding shoes that fit properly because of a bunion

Usually, your doctor will be able to tell you if you have a bunion after conducting a simple assessment. They'll look at your feet and toes and watch you walk.

An X-ray can show the level of deformity.

Your GP may refer you to a podiatrist to give you advice on how to manage your bunions. If you have bunion pain, this can be eased by:

• Ice packs
• Losing weight
• Taking over the counter painkillers (such as paracetamol and ibuprofen)
• Using bunion pads to stop shoes rubbing
• Using insoles or bunion correctors (splints)
• Wearing flat, wide, well-fitting shoes

The only way to get rid of bunions is by surgery, called an osteotomy or bunionectomy. Bunion surgery can involve removing, realigning and pinning of your bones to:

• Correct the deformity
• Narrow your foot
• Straighten your toes