Physical therapy
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A bunion (hallux valgus) is a deformity of the big toe joint: the big toe bends towards the other toes, and a bony bump forms on the inner side of the foot that hurts in shoes. In the earlier stages, foot exercises, wider footwear, orthopaedic insoles, a night splint and kinesio taping help, while surgery is considered when the pain and deformity progress despite these measures.
Bunions are common, especially in women. The bump on the inner side of the foot, around the big toe joint, forms when the big toe gradually bends towards the other toes. The joint then loses mobility, shoes press on the bump and walking becomes uncomfortable.
Bunions are a combination of heredity and external factors. Inherited foot structure plays a major role, while narrow shoes and high heels speed up the problem. Other contributing factors include:
The aim of the non-surgical approach is to reduce pain, slow the progression of the deformity and restore foot function. A combination works best, not a single measure:
Foot exercises. Strengthening the small muscles of the foot, stretching and spreading the toes, big toe movements and massaging the sole with a ball improve mobility and support.
Flossing technique. An elastic band is wrapped tightly around the joint while movements are performed. Short-term compression combined with movement can ease pain and improve the mobility of the big toe joint.
Orthopaedic insoles and footwear. Insoles distribute the load on the foot and take pressure off the big toe joint. Shoes should have a sufficiently wide toe box, with no pressure on the bump and no high heel.
Night corrective splint. It holds the big toe in a straighter position while you sleep. It does not “put the bone back”, but it can slow the progression of the deformity and reduce symptoms.
Kinesio taping. The tape is worn during the day, moves with you and does not get in the way in shoes. Read more about the tape in our article on kinesio taping.
At Fizio Spa we combine the flossing technique, corrective exercises and foot mobilisation, a night splint and kinesio taping. At the first appointment we assess your foot and gait, show you exercises to do at home and agree how often you should come in. The most can be achieved in the earlier stages, while the joint is still mobile.
When pain persists despite conservative treatment, when the deformity progresses quickly or the joint can no longer function normally, the decision on surgery is made by an orthopaedic specialist. After surgery, the surgeon usually recommends a corrective splint and exercises, and post-operative rehabilitation helps restore normal walking.
The bone cannot be put back in place without surgery, but exercises, footwear, insoles, a night splint and kinesio taping can reduce pain, slow progression and improve foot function.
The splint holds the big toe in a straighter position overnight and can slow progression and reduce symptoms, but it is most effective combined with exercises.
Shoes with a wide toe box, soft material over the bump and a low heel, with an orthopaedic insole if needed.
When the pain does not go away despite changing footwear and doing exercises, when the deformity progresses quickly or you cannot walk normally.
Book an assessment and an exercise plan with a physiotherapist, and you will get a confirmation by email straight away.
Book online