21 May Bunions: Causes and the Best Ways to Treat Them

Bunions, also known as Hallux Valgus, are a common foot deformity characterised by a bony lump that forms at the base of the big toe. This condition often causes the big toe to push against the other toes, leading to discomfort and a visible bump. Bunions can cause pain, swelling, and redness, although symptoms can vary among individuals. Understanding what causes bunions and how to treat them effectively is essential for maintaining foot health and comfort.

What Causes Bunions?

Genetic Predisposition

One of the primary causes of bunions is genetics. If someone in your family has bunions, you may be more likely to develop them due to inherited structural foot abnormalities.

Footwear Choices

Wearing ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or shoes with a narrow toe box can contribute to the development of bunions. These types of footwear can force the toes into an unnatural position, exacerbating the formation of bunions over time.

Foot Anatomy

Certain foot types are more prone to bunions. Flat feet, low arches, or abnormal bone structures can increase the likelihood of developing bunions. Individuals with these foot characteristics should monitor their feet closely, especially if bunions run in the family.

Consequences of Untreated Bunions

Ignoring bunions can lead to several complications:

– Increased Pain: Over time, bunions can become more painful, making it difficult to walk or stand for long periods.

– Difficulty Wearing Shoes: Finding comfortable footwear can become challenging as the bunion grows.

– Hammertoe Development: Untreated bunions can lead to other deformities, such as hammertoes, where the toes bend abnormally.

How to Treat Bunions

Surgical Treatment: Minimally-Invasive Bunionectomy in Bournemouth

For a long-term solution, River Aesthetics offers a minimally-invasive keyhole bunion removal surgery. This advanced procedure is performed at our sister clinic on Harley Street, London with consultations now available to book at our clinic in Bournemouth

Consultation and Assessment

The first step is an assessment by our Orthopaedic surgeon, which includes an X-ray of your feet to determine your suitability for the procedure.

The Surgical Procedure

– Local Anaesthetic: The foot is numbed to ensure comfort during the procedure.

– Small Incisions: The surgeon makes small 2–3-millimetre incisions around the bones, known as geometric fractures, under the guidance of a radiological device.

– Natural Healing: No pins or screws are used; instead, the foot is left to heal naturally. A specialised bandaging technique aids the healing process, helping the foot restructure on its own.

Post-Surgery

After the procedure, patients are encouraged to walk immediately to aid natural foot movement. You can leave the clinic without the need for crutches.

Recovery from Bunion Surgery

Recovery from minimally-invasive bunion surgery is significantly faster compared to traditional methods. Patients can typically return to work within 1-2 days and see initial results at their 2-week post-op appointment. Full results are visible after a few months, with no need for crutches during the recovery period.

Bunions Consultations available at River Aesthetics in Bournemouth

Bunions can cause significant discomfort and impact your quality of life, but understanding their causes and treatment options can help you manage this condition effectively. At River Aesthetics, we offer cutting-edge minimally-invasive bunion surgery to help you achieve pain-free, natural-looking feet.

For more information or to book a consultation, contact River Aesthetics in Bournemouth, today and take the first step towards better foot health with one our expert practitioners. Simply click here to contact us or reach out to us at 0330 822 4248.