Everything you need to know about bunions and bunion surgery

Bunions, known medically as hallux valgus, are a deformity of the big toe, where the joint of the big toe swells and the big toe points towards the smaller toes. The second and third toes can become associated with the deformity.

What causes a bunion?

There are many different factors that can cause bunions. One of the most common factors is a hereditary history, with around 60% of patients with bunions having family members who have also suffered.

They are more common in women, especially those who wear or have worn stilettos and other high-heeled shoes, with pointed toe areas, that push the toes together.

Other causes can be injury or trauma to the toes, and rheumatoid arthritis among others.

What are the signs?

• Pain and swelling around the toe joint.
• A visible bump forming at the base of the big toe, on the side of the foot.
• Corns and calluses where the toes may overlap.
• Restricted movement in the big toe.
• Difficulty with shoe wear

Why should I have surgery?

Treatment may be indicated if there is progression of pain and deformity, problems with shoe wear and skin ulceration.

Surgery may be required to help correct the deformity, allowing the toe to function properly and to relieve the symptoms for the patient. 80-85% of patients see good results following surgery, and studies confirm that surgical treatment provides better pain relief, improved function and better cosmesis than with non-surgical options.

What are the risks of surgery?

As with any kind of surgery, there are certain risks. Infection, bleeding, bruising and swelling, amongst others, with foot surgery carrying a slightly higher risk of infection than other types of surgery.

What is the recovery time?

The recovery time following bunion surgery is usually around 6-8 weeks before patients can wear normal loose shoes such as trainers, and after 3-4 months the patient should be able to wear a more elegant shoe.

Returning to full function, including participating in sports should be possible after 4-6 months.

What happens if a bunion is not treated?

The bunion may be treated non-operatively with sensible wide-fitting shoewear and the use of bunion splints or spacers.

If a bunion is not treated, the deformity may gradually get worse, eventually causing more discomfort to the patient.

If you want to book an appointment with a specialist in bunions, contact our orthopaedic surgeons here.