A bunion is a common deformity at the base of your big toe which may cause foot pain or make it difficult finding shoes that fit.
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:
If you have a bunion, you may notice:
You might also develop corns or calluses around your big toe.
You can book an appointment with a Spire private GP today.
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:
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:
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:
https://cks.nice.org.uk/bunions#!topicsummary
https://cop.org.uk/foot-health/podiatric-surgery/common-foot-problems-and-their-surgical-correction/
https://www.bofas.org.uk/Patient-Information/Hallux-valgus-bunion
https://patient.info/doctor/hallux-valgus
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/bunions/