Bunion (hallux valgus)
Bunion (hallux valgus)
If you have been diagnosed with a bunion (hallux valgus), the information here should help you understand it better. If you notice new symptoms or your symptoms are ongoing, it's best to visit your healthcare professional for advice.
Read more about self-managing a foot problem
What is a bunion?
A bunion (hallux valgus) is a deformity in which the base joint of the big toe starts to angle outward. Over time, this pushes the bones of the big toe toward the smaller toes.
If you have a bunion, try to stay positive. There is a lot you can do to help yourself.
Common Symptoms
⚠️ This symptom list is for educational purposes. Having these symptoms does not mean you have this condition. See a doctor for proper diagnosis.
Medicines Commonly Used
⚠️ These medicines are commonly used for confirmed diagnoses of this condition. This is NOT a recommendation or prescription. Treatment must be determined by your doctor.
No medicines have been linked to this condition yet.
Causes
What causes a bunion?
Doctors are not completely sure why bunions develop. Still, a few things seem to raise the risk:
- a joint problem such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis
- shoes that do not fit well
- a family history of bunions
Treatment
Wearing the right footwear is one of the best things you can do to help yourself. Choose shoes that fit well, ideally ones with laces or an adjustable strap, since these can be adjusted to the width of your foot. Try to avoid high heeled, pointed or tight shoes.
Insoles and toe spacers can also help by supporting your foot or easing pressure between your toes.
You may come across bunion padding for sale. Using sticky padding regularly can irritate the skin, so it is not recommended as a long term solution.
Pain treatment
Pain medication can help you move more comfortably, which in turn helps you manage your symptoms.
More about taking painkillers.
Exercise
Doing exercises to strengthen the muscles in your foot can be helpful and may support the overall management of your condition.
Read about exercises for foot pain.
Work
With a bunion, you may sometimes need to take a bit of time off work to support your recovery. How long you need will depend on your condition and the nature of your job.
You do not need to be completely free of symptoms before returning to work. In fact, continuing to work, or going back as soon as you reasonably can, will actually help your recovery.
Gradually easing back into your normal daily activities can help rebuild your strength and stamina.
Help and support
If you follow this advice, you should notice gradual improvement over time.
Speak to a healthcare professional if:
your symptoms have not improved after 12 weeks of following this advice
your symptoms get worse
Find out about access to MSK services in your area.
When you are dealing with any health condition, it is also important to look after your mental wellbeing, as this can affect your recovery.
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