If you think you are developing or have a bunion, it is important to take steps to prevent further development of the bunion. Unfortunately, once a bunion occurs, there is no way to reduce the size of the lump without surgery. Early detection is hence crucial to avoid further development, pain and complications.
The goal of treatment is prevent further worsening of the bunion, alleviate pain, and to maintain your activity and function. For this, early non-surgical management is essential. These include:
- Shoe selection. Wear shoes with a stable base and wide toe box that conforms to the natural shape of your foot and provides plenty of space for your toes.
- Foot orthotics. Foot orthotics improve your foot mechanics and help distribute pressure more evenly during walking and running. This helps reduce your symptoms and prevents your bunion from getting worse. We can prescribe precision-made customised foot orthotics to suit your individual biomechanical needs.
- Filing of calluses and corns. Self-thinning your calluses and corns with a foot file can help reduce pain and discomfort from it. If you need help, we can remove your calluses and corns in a pain-free, non-invasive way.
- Strengthening of foot muscles. Exercises to strengthen the muscles in your feet can help prevent the bunion from worsening over the long term and alleviate pain in the big toe joint.
In the rare cases where your pain is persistent despite conservative care in the long term, surgery may be required by an Orthopaedic surgeon. If you have already had surgery, we can guide you in your rehabilitation so that you can return quickly to the activities that you enjoy.
Let us help you with your bunion!
