Bunions
What is a Bunion?
A bunion (medically called Hallux Abducto Valgus) is a bony bump that forms on the inside edge of the foot, just below the big toe joint. It results from the misalignment of the big toe, which begins to drift toward the second toe, forcing the joint at the base to protrude outward.
Bunions can cause discomfort, joint stiffness, inflammation, and difficulty finding comfortable footwear.
A similar condition that affects the small toe is known as a Tailor’s bunion or bunionette.
Over time, the deformity can worsen, potentially leading to arthritis, changes in walking mechanics, and pain during daily activities.
What Causes Bunions?
Bunions are most commonly caused by a combination of genetic and mechanical factors. While you may inherit the foot structure that makes you more prone to bunions, environmental triggers often lead to their progression.
Common causes and contributing factors include:
Flat feet and overpronation (rolling inwards when walking)
Wearing narrow, high-heeled, or tight shoes
Family history of bunions or foot deformities
Trauma or injury to the big toe joint
Arthritis, especially inflammatory types like rheumatoid arthritis
Muscle or ligament imbalances in the foot and ankle
Occupational or lifestyle factors requiring long hours on your feet
Symptoms of Bunions
The most noticeable sign of a bunion is the bump on the inside of the foot, but other symptoms may include:
Redness, swelling, and tenderness around the joint
Pain during or after walking or wearing shoes
Limited movement or stiffness in the big toe
Development of corns or calluses where the toes rub
A sensation of imbalance or pressure on the ball of the foot
Overlapping of the second toe due to the drifting big toe
Discomfort while wearing closed-toe or narrow footwear
Tailor’s bunions present similarly but occur on the outside of the foot near the base of the little toe.
Diagnosing Bunions
At KL Foot Specialist Podiatry, our diagnosis includes:
A thorough physical examination of your foot and gait
Evaluation of your range of motion, posture, and footwear
Video gait analysis to assess walking mechanics
Referral for X-rays, if needed, to assess bunion severity and joint changes like arthritis
Bunion Treatment Options
While bunions cannot be reversed without surgery, non-surgical podiatry care can significantly reduce your pain, improve mobility, and slow the progression of the deformity.
Custom Orthotics
Orthotic devices are prescribed to offload pressure from the bunion area, improve foot alignment, and reduce further joint stress.
DolorClast® High Power Laser
This non-invasive laser helps relieve inflammation, pain, and swelling around the big toe joint and enhances soft tissue healing.
Footwear Advice
We recommend and guide you toward bunion-friendly shoes with wide toe boxes, soft uppers, and firm arch support.
Taping & Padding
Provides short-term relief from irritation, especially when wearing shoes, by reducing friction and pressure.
Strengthening & Stretching Exercises
To restore and maintain function in the surrounding joints and soft tissues, helping with stability and movement.
Night Splints or Toe Spacers
May assist in slowing the progression of bunion alignment and offer relief while resting.
Our approach is always conservative first—we aim to improve comfort and function without the need for surgery.
Do Bunions Need Surgery?
Surgery is only necessary when bunions cause severe, ongoing pain, or when conservative treatments no longer help. Bunion surgery comes with risks and a recovery period of 8 weeks to 6 months, and may include complications such as:
Nerve damage or reduced joint movement
Infection or poor healing
Ongoing pain or stiffness
Incomplete correction or recurrence
If your bunion is not painful, surgery is generally not recommended.
What Happens If I Don’t Treat My Bunion?
Ignoring a bunion won’t make it go away—and in many cases, it can get worse over time. Risks of leaving a bunion untreated include:
Increased deformity and joint stiffness
Development of arthritis in the joint
Corns, calluses, or ulceration in diabetic patients
Discomfort or damage to neighbouring toes
Chronic pain and difficulty walking
Preventing Bunion Progression
While not all bunions can be prevented, these steps may help reduce your risk:
Wear supportive footwear with wide toe boxes
Avoid high heels or tight-fitting shoes
Use custom orthotics if you have flat feet or pronation
Stretch and strengthen foot muscles regularly
Maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on your joints
Monitor your foot shape if you have a family history of bunions
Bunion Care at KL Foot Specialist Podiatry
At KL Foot Specialist, we take a personalised approach to managing bunions, with a focus on relieving pain, improving foot function, and preserving mobility—without surgery.
Book an appointment with our podiatrist today and take your first step toward bunion relief.
Trusted foot care in Kuala Lumpur
Bunion support tailored to your lifestyle and activity needs