BUNIONS & BIG TOE JOINT PAIN
You may have a bunion. Bunions are a common condition that we see at our clinic. Studies have shown that about 25-36% of the population have a bunion, with women and elderly people being the most common. Although bunions are common, they are complex as multiple factors must come together to cause a bunion to form. Bunions are a progressive condition; they start off small but can enlarge over time. They can be symptomatic or asymptomatic in people depending on severity. They can also lead to osteoarthritis and footwear fitting issues, which may impact daily activities. The appearance of bunions can cause distress in patients and impact on mental wellbeing.
A conservative approach is usually the first line of treatment, all depending on the individual and stage of the deformity. Re-aligning the foot with custom orthotic can prevent further degeneration. Along with this, a change of footwear may help decrease the pressure and compliment the orthotics. Surgical correction of the bunion is another option but should only be considered if the conservative measures have failed.
