What is a bunion?

A bunion, also known as hallux valgus, is a bony lump that forms on the joint of your big toe. A bunion forms when the big toe leans towards the other toes — this makes the joint stick out over time.

Bunions are most common among females over 45 years of age.

What are the symptoms of bunions?

Over time, bunions can cause:

• changes in the shape of your toes and feet
• pain and stiffness when you wear shoes
• pain when you walk
• redness and inflammation of your joint
• hard, thick skin that covers your bunion
• difficulty finding shoes that fit well — this can increase your chance of falls

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What causes bunions?

The cause of bunions is not completely understood.

The shape and structure of your foot are things you inherit from your parents. Many people with bunions have a family history of the condition.

Bunions can also be caused by:

• health conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis
• injuries to the foot

Wearing shoes that are too narrow and tight can increase your chance of developing bunions.

When should I see my doctor?

You should see a doctor if:

• you think you have bunions
• you have bunions that cause you pain or are inflamed
• your bunions make it difficult to wear shoes or walk
• you have bunions and diabetes — foot problems can be more serious if you have diabetes

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How are bunions diagnosed?

If you think you have bunions, your doctor will ask about your symptoms and do a physical examination.

They might order an x-ray of your foot. This helps them to see the alignment of the bones and joints in your foot.

How are bunions treated?

If you have bunions that are causing you pain, there are ways to manage them including:

• exercise — it's important to try to keep your joints moving. A podiatrist or physiotherapist can show you exercises that are right for your feet.
• footwear — wear comfortable, soft, and wide shoes to allow your toes to spread out. Avoid high heels, as they put pressure on your toes.
• shoe inserts or splints — a podiatrist can advise you on shoe inserts or bunion splints to help improve your symptoms.

Your doctor may suggest other treatments to improve your symptoms, including:

• anti-inflammatory medicines, such as ibuprofen
• a corticosteroid injection in your joint

Bunions often get worse with time, rather than better. If treatments don't help or if your bunion keeps getting worse, your doctor might recommend bunion surgery. Before agreeing to surgery, ask your doctor:

• what is involved
• about the benefits and risks

It can take a long time to recover from bunion surgery and the bunions might come back after surgery.

What are the complications of bunions?

If bunions are not managed, they can:

• make walking difficult
• change the way you walk
• prevent your shoes from fitting properly
• increase your chance of having a fall, especially among older people
• cause problems with the skin on your feet
• cause pressure sores and ulcers

If you have diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis, you may have a higher chance of developing complications from bunions.

How can bunions be prevented?

Because the cause of bunions is not completely understood, they can't easily be prevented. By managing your bunions, you can help prevent them from getting worse:

• Always choose comfortable, wide shoes that fit properly and don't squeeze your toes together.
• Be sure to take care of your children's feet and your own feet. Wash and dry your feet regularly. Check for cuts, blisters or changes in the nails and skin.
• See your doctor or podiatrist if you notice any changes in your feet that you are worried about.

Resources and support

You can call the Musculoskeletal Health Australia's Helpline on 1800 263 265 to speak to a nurse about bunions.

To find a podiatrist in your area, visit The Australian Podiatry Council.

You can also call the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222 (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria). A registered nurse is available to speak with you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.