What it is
Wide, low-heeled shoes, bunion pads, insoles and painkillers can ease symptoms but do not correct the bunion.
Surgery is an option if the pain is severe and affects daily life. Recovery takes several months.
Common signs
- A lump on the side of the foot at the big toe joint
- The big toe pointing towards the other toes
- Pain, swelling and redness over the lump
- Hard skin under the foot
How it is usually diagnosed
- Examination of the foot
- X-ray if surgery is being considered
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- Podiatry or orthopaedic letters
- X-ray reports
- Operation notes, if any
Questions to ask your doctor
- Will insoles or different shoes help?
- When is surgery worth considering?
- How long is recovery after surgery?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- A hot, swollen, very painful big toe joint with fever
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.