Bunions & Toe Deformities

Symptoms

• – Pain and tenderness over the bump, worse with tight shoes
• – Swelling and inflammation around the joint
• – Corns or calluses from toe overlap
• – Limited big toe movement in advanced cases
• – Secondary issues like hammertoes or bursitis

• Causes and Risk Factors

• Bunions develop gradually from biomechanical issues, inherited foot shape (e.g., flat feet), or prolonged narrow/high-heeled shoes. Inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis accelerate progression. As a BOFAS member with London fellowship training, I often see bunions in active patients and those with family history.

• Non-Surgical Treatment

• Most bunions start with conservative management:

  Wide, comfortable shoes with good arch support
  Bunion pads or spacers to reduce friction
  Orthotics to correct alignment
  Anti-inflammatory medications or ice
  Physical therapy for strengthening
  Cortisone injections provide temporary relief for inflammation.

• Surgical Operations

• If pain persists despite 6 months of conservative care, surgery corrects the deformity and relieves symptoms. Modern techniques offer smaller incisions, less swelling, faster recovery, and immediate weight-bearing in most cases. Procedures involve realigning bones, removing the bump, and tightening/soft tissue balancing. At TwentySix Clinic, I tailor surgery to severity – from scarf osteotomy for moderate cases to fusion for severe/recurrent bunions. UK-trained expertise ensures low recurrence and excellent outcomes.

• Recovery

• 6 weeks in a protective velcro shoe, with full activity by 3-6 months.