Bunions
What to do if you have a bunion
At East Kent foot care our experienced podiatry team review many bunions every day. We can help you understand the cause and discuss your treatment options.
Bunions can be classified as grade 1,2, 3 or 4. Treatment of your condition would depend on the grade of your bunion and whether it is causing pain or secondary problems such as heel pain, arch pain or general foot pain.
Treatments Available At EKFC
What is a Bunion?
A bunion, medically known as hallux valgus, is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe where it meets the foot. It develops when the big toe gradually shifts towards the smaller toes, causing the joint to protrude outward. This misalignment can lead to swelling, redness, and pain around the joint, especially when wearing tight or narrow shoes. Over time, the skin over the bunion may become thickened or irritated, and the joint itself can become stiff or arthritic, making walking and footwear choices more difficult.
Bunions are often caused by a combination of genetic factors, foot structure, and lifestyle influences such as footwear. People with flat feet, hypermobile joints, or a family history of bunions are more likely to develop them. Wearing high heels or shoes with a narrow toe box can accelerate the condition by placing excessive pressure on the front of the foot. While bunions can vary in severity, early intervention with footwear advice, orthotics, and podiatric care can help manage symptoms and slow progression.
Symptoms
- Inflammation and redness.
- A burning sensation.
- Soreness from rubbing on the “bump” from shoes.
Conservative Bunion Management
At East Kent Foot Care, we offer a range of non-surgical treatments to help manage bunions and relieve discomfort. Our experienced podiatrists begin with a detailed biomechanical assessment to understand how your foot structure and walking pattern contribute to bunion development. Based on this, we may recommend custom orthotics to improve alignment and reduce pressure on the bunion. We also provide footwear advice, helping you choose shoes with a wider toe box, supportive soles, and low heels to minimise irritation and improve comfort.
Additional options include protective padding, toe spacers, and rehabilitation exercises to strengthen the foot and ankle, improve joint mobility, and slow progression. For persistent pain, we may offer shockwave therapy or EMTT to address soft tissue inflammation. Our goal is to keep you active, comfortable, and confident.
If your bunion is affecting your daily life, book an appointment with our East Kent Foot Care team to explore your personalised treatment plan. If you have exhausted conservative management, your podiatrist may discuss your surgical options. We may refer you back to your doctor or directly to an experienced surgeon.