Bunions are an unsightly development of a boney prominence on the side of the foot at the big toe joint. These are the result of a progressive deformity whereby the big toe joint eventually dislocates as the 1st metatarsal bone rotates out of alignment. This change is called hallux (big toe) abducto-valgus (the rotation) or HAV in the medical industry.

The medical industry does not understand what causes this change though we do have the ability to control symptoms as the deformity changes.

Fun fact there is no association with wearing high heels or bad shoes or even no shoes that causes bunions to form.

Common features and findings that are associated with the onset of bunions can include:

• Osteoarthritis

• Excessive foot movement such as pronation or rolling in

• Weakness in foot and leg muscles

• Acute trauma

• Leg length discrepancy

• Heredity, (yes you got mums feet …..sorry)

Unfortunately, you can only correct or resort to the normal appearance via surgery but this does not commonly result in long term correction.

The flip side is the management of painful and symptomatic bunions has clinically been found to be a successful option for patients.

The key to bunions is they are progressive and early intervention can reduce long term pain which may prevent you from doing the things you love.

Treatment can include footwear modification, foot orthotics and foot strengthening with mobilisation.

So explore your options with a podiatrist before making the choice to have surgery.