Common problem

Foot bunion

A bunion is an outward bone deviation of the foot’s 1st metatarsus, accompanied with a deviation of the big toe (Hallux) towards the other toes. As time goes by, calcium may start to accumulate, thus accentuating the bunion. Bunions are often hereditary. Wearing shoes that are too tight, too short, or not offering enough support aggravates them. More women than men tend to be affected.

Treatment for
foot bunion

The forms of treatment that are the most frequently used by podiatrists for bunions are:

An exercising and stretching program designed to keep the big toe moving.
The prescription of anti-inflammatory medication, or the injection of cortisone to reduce the inflammation in the big toe articulation (if such an inflammation is present).
The prescription of plantar orthoses that provide support for the arch of the foot and the big toe to slow down the increase of the deviation.

Wearing shoes that are sufficiently wide is also important to avoid any inflammation or pain.

With time, the deformation might become more pronounced and a surgical intervention may be necessary to correct the deviation permanently. Certain podiatrists or orthopaedists can carry out such interventions.