What is a Bunion?
A bunion | medically known as Hallux Valgus | is a bony prominence that develops on the medial aspect (inner side) of the foot at the first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint, where the big toe meets the foot. As the deformity progresses, the big toe drifts laterally towards the smaller toes and the joint protrudes further outward.
Bunions affect approximately 23% of adults and are significantly more common in women, largely due to footwear choices. However, the underlying cause is often biomechanical | particularly over-pronation (flat feet) | meaning the right intervention can genuinely slow or halt progression.
Symptoms
- Visible bony bump on the inner side of the big toe joint
- Redness, swelling or soreness around the joint
- Restricted movement or stiffness in the big toe
- Corns or calluses where the first and second toes overlap
- Persistent or intermittent pain, especially in narrow shoes
- Second toe drifting upward (hammer toe secondary to bunion)
Bunions are progressive
Without intervention, bunions worsen over time. Conservative podiatric treatment | especially custom orthotics | is most effective when started early. Surgery, while sometimes necessary, carries risks and has variable outcomes; conservative treatment should always be attempted first.
How We Help
At Grays Foot Clinic, Michael Keet brings over 40 years of specialist experience to the management of Hallux Valgus. Bunion surgery is performed by orthopaedic surgeons; our approach focuses on the most effective conservative treatment available - precision custom orthotics hand-fabricated from plaster-of-Paris casts - to slow progression and significantly reduce pain without the risks of surgery.
Biomechanical Assessment
A detailed analysis of how your feet move to identify pronation patterns that are accelerating bunion development.
Custom Orthotics
Plaster-cast orthotics that redistribute pressure away from the first MTP joint and correct the underlying biomechanical driver.
Corn & Callus Treatment
Relief of painful skin build-up caused by the altered joint mechanics and toe overlap.
Footwear Advice
Expert guidance on appropriate shoes that accommodate the bunion and do not accelerate progression.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can orthotics reverse a bunion?
Orthotics cannot reverse an existing bunion deformity, but they can slow its progression and significantly reduce pain by correcting the biomechanical forces that drive the deformity. They are most effective when used early.
Should I have bunion surgery?
Bunion surgery is performed by orthopaedic surgeons and carries significant risks - including recurrence, nerve damage, and a lengthy recovery. At Grays Foot Clinic, we always pursue conservative management first: custom orthotics, joint manipulation, and footwear advice. In many cases this provides lasting relief without the need for surgical intervention.
Are bunions hereditary?
There is a genetic component to bunion susceptibility, particularly in relation to foot type. However, lifestyle factors such as footwear and activity level also play a significant role.