What is it?
A bunion is a bony bump at the base of the big toe. It forms when the big toe gradually drifts towards the second toe and the long bone behind it (the first metatarsal) moves outwards.
What causes it?
- An inherited foot shape: bunions often run in families.
- Loose ligaments or flat feet.
- Narrow or high-heeled shoes, which can make bunions worse.
- Inflammatory arthritis.
Common symptoms
- A painful bump that rubs in shoes and may become red or swollen.
- Difficulty finding comfortable shoes.
- Pain under the ball of the foot.
- Problems with the second toe, such as a hammer toe.
How is it diagnosed?
Bunions are diagnosed by examination. X-rays taken while standing show how far the bones have moved and help plan treatment.
Things you can do now
- Wear wide, soft shoes with a low heel and a roomy toe box
- Use bunion pads or toe spacers to reduce rubbing
- Choose insoles if you have flat feet or pain under the ball of the foot
- Use simple pain relief as needed
Treatment
Treatment is tailored to your individual needs, symptoms and goals. Depending on your situation, it may include wider, softer shoes, bunion pads or toe spacers, insoles, pain relief and surgery to realign the bones, using open or minimally invasive (keyhole) techniques.
Mr Jeyaseelan will talk you through the options that are right for you at your consultation.
When to see a specialist
- Pain is limiting your walking or the shoes you can wear despite these measures
- The second toe is starting to cross over or become a hammer toe
- You have diabetes or poor circulation and the skin over the bunion is breaking down
What to expect
Bunions do not reverse without surgery, but many people stay comfortable with the right footwear. Surgery is recommended for pain rather than appearance, and has high satisfaction rates.
Common questions
Where can I see a specialist about bunions (hallux valgus) in London?
Mr Lucky Jeyaseelan, a consultant orthopaedic surgeon who specialises only in the foot and ankle, sees private and insured patients with bunions (hallux valgus) at Align Orthopaedics on Harley Street, The London Clinic on Devonshire Place, HCA London Bridge Hospital, HCA UK at The Shard, HCA UK City of London on Old Broad Street and The Holly Hospital in Buckhurst Hill, Essex. See all clinic locations or request an appointment.
Do I need a GP referral?
Self-funding patients can book directly, though a GP letter is helpful. Most insurers need a GP referral before they authorise your consultation, so check with yours first.
This information is general and is not a substitute for a medical consultation. Your diagnosis and treatment plan will be tailored to you.