Bunions: Early Treatment, Better Outcomes

A bunion is a bony bump that develops at the base of the big toe joint (called the metatarsophalangeal joint) as the big toe deviates outwards towards the second toe.

While the exact cause of bunions is still unknown, there are factors that increase one’s risk of developing them, such as:

• Wearing high heels, or tight or ill-fitting shoes
• Family history of bunions
• Flatfoot (pes planus)
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Generalized ligamentous laxity

Much more than just a cosmetic problem, bunions are a foot deformity that worsen with time. Bunions may also be accompanied by other symptoms, including pain, redness, swelling and tenderness in the area around the big toe joint. Patients may find it increasingly difficult to find fitting footwear or walk comfortably.

Early treatment while the deformity is still mild can yield better results in the long run, prevents complications, and requires less invasive treatment.

Bunion treatment in Singapore will depend on the severity of the condition. In mild cases, conservative options may first be recommended:

• Changing shoes – Wearing high heels, narrow-toed shoes or ill-fitting shoes for a prolonged period causes overcrowding in the toes. Comfortable shoes with wider toe-boxes can help relief discomfort.
• Medications – Pain relievers and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be prescribed to reduce pain and swelling.
• Padding – Pads act as a cushion between the bunion and the shoe, preventing friction and pressure that can cause pain.
• Toe spacers – These are silicone or gel devices that are placed between the toes to keep them from rubbing or leaning against each other.
• Splints – These orthotic devices help the big toe remain in a straight position, preventing it from leaning toward the smaller toes.

However, do note that these methods only provide symptomatic relief and does not prevent worsening of the deformity. They also do not correct the deformity. Should pain persist and your mobility be compromised, your bunion surgeon in Singapore may recommend bunion surgery as a definitive way to remove bunions safely.

Bunion surgery achieves 2 aims:

• Removing the painful bump at the base of the big toe
• Straightening the big toe

Such procedures can either be done through keyhole or traditional open surgery, depending on the severity and stage of the deformity.

Mild to moderate or early stage bunions are suitable for the minimally-invasive keyhole procedure, which is less painful, has a lower wound complication rate and leads to faster recovery as compared to traditional open surgery. Severe or late stage bunions are more suited to open traditional surgery.

Thus, early treatment can lead to better outcomes; so do consult your foot and ankle specialist promptly if you have bunions.