Bunions (Hallux abducto valgus)

What is a bunion?

To most people a bunion is a bony lump on the side of the big toe.

The condition medically is called Hallux Abducto Valgus, which means that the big toe (hallux) instead of lying straight moves towards the second toe resulting in the bony bump called a bunion. This can result in over riding of the second toe and can cause painful corns. Bunion’s are the most common cause of pain big toe and is more prevalent in females than males.

Signs and Symptoms:

• Bump on the base of the big toe
• Redness, swelling and inflammation over the joint
• Pain radiating through the joint and ball of the foot
• Corns and calluses

Causes of bunions:

• High heels or incorrectly fitting shoes
• Heredity

• Flat feet/ over pronation

Treatment:

• Wearing comfortable and correct fitting shoes
• Padding and strapping
• Splinting the big toe
• Corn or callous reduction
• Orthotic management to redistribute and improve foot function
• Icing the painful area
• Surgery if conservative treatment is ineffective