Bunions Adelaide

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion, medically known as hallux valgus (HV), is a common foot deformity that develops gradually. It occurs when the big toe begins to angle toward the smaller toes, causing a bony prominence on the inside of the foot at the base of the big toe. This misalignment can lead to a visible bump, often accompanied by pain, swelling, and difficulty fitting into regular footwear.

As the condition progresses, the big toe continues to drift, crowding the lesser toes. Over time, this can lead to joint inflammation, cartilage damage, and in most cases, the onset of arthritis in the big toe joint.

Try our Gap Free Bunion Assessment and we guarantee you’ll understand your options for effective non-surgical treatment.

Common Bunion Symptoms

Big Toe Pain

Pain at the big toe joint is one of the most frequent symptoms reported by individuals with bunions. This discomfort can be mild or quite severe, often aggravated by footwear that compresses the forefoot. In some cases, redness and swelling may develop around the joint, mimicking conditions like gout.

Prominent Bump

One of the clearest signs of a bunion is a bulging bump at the side of the big toe joint. This isn’t just cosmetic—it indicates a structural problem in the joint itself and often worsens without proper management.

Restricted Movement

As the bunion progresses, the mobility of the big toe can become limited. This reduced range of motion may affect how you walk, especially during the push-off phase, and can influence your shoe choices and activity levels.

Corns and Calluses

Bunions can alter how your foot bears weight. As a result, corns and calluses may form on pressure areas, especially between overlapping toes or under the ball of the foot. These can be painful, especially during prolonged walking or standing.

General Foot Discomfort

Beyond the big toe, bunions can cause widespread foot fatigue and soreness, particularly after being on your feet for long periods. This ongoing discomfort can impact day-to-day mobility and overall quality of life.

If you notice any of these signs or symptoms, it’s best to consult a podiatrist early. Prompt treatment can slow progression and help prevent long-term complications.

If you notice any of these signs or symptoms, it’s best to consult a podiatrist early. Prompt treatment can slow progression and help prevent long-term complications.

Why You Shouldn’t Ignore a Bunion

While some may initially dismiss bunions as a minor inconvenience or hide them wearing shoes, ignoring them can lead to more significant problems. Bunions are a progressive condition—meaning they typically worsen over time. As the toe alignment changes, additional problems such as bursitis, joint stiffness, and secondary deformities (like hammertoes) can arise.

Untreated bunions can cause:

• Increasing pain and inflammation
• Joint degeneration and rheumatoid arthritis
• Difficulty finding comfortable footwear
• Compromised walking mechanics

Early care can dramatically improve outcomes. Non-surgical approaches can often relieve pain and improve alignment—especially when addressed in the earlier stages.

Treatment Options for Bunion Correction

1. Do Nothing (Not Recommended)
Some people choose to live with their bunion, especially if it’s not yet painful. However, even in the absence of bunion pain, the deformity often continues to progress. This can result in greater long-term issues, including overlapping toes, joint instability, and limited non-surgical treatment options.

2. Surgery
Surgical correction is the only method to completely remove the bunion bump. Advances in minimally invasive and keyhole bunion surgery have made the procedure more accessible in Adelaide. However, as with any surgery, there are risks and a recovery period. If surgical treatment is the best option, we can connect you with trusted foot and ankle surgeons for further evaluation.

3. Conservative Management (Our Preferred Approach)
Many of our patients at the clinic achieve relief without surgery. Conservative bunion treatments focus on relieving pressure, improving alignment, and addressing the underlying mechanics of the foot. These may include:

• Targeted foot exercises
• Foot mobilisation therapy
• Orthotic therapy to support proper foot function
• Dry needling for muscle tightness
• Low-level laser therapy to reduce inflammation
• Footwear advice for optimal support

While these treatments won’t remove the bump itself, they can significantly reduce pain, improve movement, and slow the condition’s progression. With a personalised treatment plan and consistent follow-up, many patients avoid bunion surgery and enjoy improved foot function and comfort.

Try our Gap Free Bunion Assessment and we guarantee you’ll understand your options for effective non-surgical treatment.

Don’t Let Bunions Limit Your Life

If you’re experiencing bunion-related discomfort or changes in your foot shape, don’t wait until it becomes unbearable. Early intervention can help protect your foot structure, reduce pain, and keep you active for years to come.

Book an appointment today for a bunion assessment with our experienced podiatry team.