Bunions can cause pain, difficulty finding comfortable shoes and changes to the way you walk. At FootMotion Podiatry, our experienced podiatrists assess the underlying causes of bunions and provide personalised treatment to help reduce pain, improve comfort and slow progression of the deformity.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is a bony bump that develops on the side of the foot at the base of the big toe.

It occurs when the big toe gradually moves towards the second toe, causing the joint to become prominent and painful. Bunions are a progressive condition and often become more noticeable over time if left untreated.

Bunions can affect people of all ages but are more common in adults and are seen more frequently in women.

Common Symptoms of Bunions

You may have a bunion if you experience:

  • A bony bump at the base of the big toe
  • Pain or tenderness around the joint
  • Redness, swelling or inflammation
  • Difficulty finding comfortable footwear
  • Corns or calluses between the toes
  • Changes to your balance or walking pattern

What Causes Bunions?

Bunions typically develop due to a combination of foot structure, genetics and biomechanics.

Contributing factors may include:

  • Family history of bunions
  • Joint instability
  • Flat feet or excessive pronation
  • Rheumatoid arthritis and other joint conditions
  • Poor foot mechanics during walking
  • Footwear that places pressure on the joint

How Are Bunions Treated?

While bunions cannot usually be reversed without surgery, conservative treatment can often significantly reduce pain and improve function.

Your treatment plan may include:

  • Footwear advice and fitting recommendations
  • Protective padding and pressure relief
  • Stretching and strengthening exercises
  • Custom orthotics or arch supports
  • Biomechanical assessment and gait analysis
  • Referral for imaging or specialist care when required

Early treatment is often the best way to slow progression and keep you comfortable.

When Should You Seek Treatment?

We recommend booking an assessment if:

  • Your bunion is becoming painful
  • The deformity appears to be worsening
  • You are struggling to find comfortable footwear
  • Your balance or walking pattern has changed
  • You are experiencing pain in other areas of the foot

Why Choose FootMotion Podiatry?

Our podiatrists take the time to understand how your feet function and what is contributing to your bunion pain.

Using comprehensive assessments, gait analysis and evidence-based treatment strategies, we create personalised management plans designed to help you stay active and comfortable.

Take the First Step Towards Relief

Bunions don't have to stop you enjoying daily activities. Our podiatrists can help you manage pain, improve comfort and develop a plan to keep you moving.