What are Bunions?
A bunion (hallux valgus) is a bony prominence that forms at the base of the big toe, causing it to angle towards the second toe. It's one of the most common foot deformities, affecting around 1 in 3 adults.
Bunions develop gradually over time and can cause significant pain, difficulty finding comfortable footwear, and secondary problems like corns, calluses, and hammertoes. While they can't be reversed without surgery, proper management can significantly reduce pain and slow progression.
Common Symptoms
- Bony bump at the base of the big toe
- Big toe angling towards the second toe
- Pain and tenderness around the joint
- Swelling and redness over the bunion
- Difficulty finding comfortable shoes
- Corns or calluses where toes overlap
- Reduced movement in the big toe
Common Causes
- Genetics and inherited foot structure
- Flat feet or low arches
- Hypermobility of the first metatarsal
- Tight or narrow footwear (can accelerate progression)
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Ligament laxity
- Neuromuscular conditions
How We Treat Bunions
Our approach focuses on reducing pain, improving function, and slowing progression. We conduct a thorough biomechanical assessment to understand the underlying mechanics driving the deformity and create a personalised management plan. Where faulty mechanics are accelerating the deformity, custom orthotics can redistribute pressure away from the joint and slow its progression.
Biomechanical Assessment
Custom Orthotics
Footwear Advice
Surgical Referral
Ready to get bunions treated?
When to Seek Professional Help
- Pain that limits your daily activities or walking
- Difficulty finding comfortable footwear
- The bunion is getting progressively worse
- You're developing secondary problems like hammertoes
- Numbness or tingling in the big toe
- Pain that doesn't respond to rest or over-the-counter remedies
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Bunions at Lower Limb Clinic.
Further Reading
Clinically reviewed by Paul McMullan
MSc Podiatric Sports Medicine (QMUL) · FRCPSGlasg · HCPC Registered
Lead Podiatrist & Clinical Director, Lower Limb Clinic Belfast