If you’ve ever noticed a small bump forming around your big toe, you might be asking yourself, “What is this? And will it get worse over time?” That bump could be a bunion, which is a very common foot condition. It often starts as a minor bump; however they often become painful over time if left unmanaged and can lead to mobility challenges. Understanding how bunions progress, and how to manage them, can make a big difference in managing your comfort and overall foot health.
What is a Bunion?
A bunion is a hard bump that appears on the inside border of your foot, at the base of your big toe. It develops when the first metatarsal bone in your foot shifts inward, while the big toe begins to angle outward toward the other toes. Bunions can become bigger over time as the joint deviation becomes enlarged.
The joint misalignment is what can cause foot pain, irritation while wearing shoes, as well as other issues like corns, calluses, and ingrown toenails.
Bunions tend to follow a gradual progression pattern. Recognizing which stage you’re in can help guide your next steps for treatment or prevention.
Stage 1: Early Bunion Formation
- Slight bump near the big toe joint
- Minimal pain, mostly after wearing tight/pointy-toe shoes
- Big toe alignment begins to shift
Stage 2: Moderate Progression
- The bump becomes more pronounced and hard skin (callus) may develop
- Increased discomfort, especially during walking or long periods of standing
- The big toe starts to rotate and become more obviously misaligned
Stage 3: Advanced Progression
- Significant misalignment of the big toe
- Persistent pain and possible swelling
- Big toe may closely abut or overlap with the second toe
Managing Bunions Effectively
When bunions are addressed early and with consistent care, you can slow their progression and significantly reduce discomfort. A range of medical devices and clinical services are available to support your foot health.
Custom Foot Orthotics
- Redistribute pressure away from the bunion
- Improve foot alignment and reduce stress on the joint
- Improve overall comfort in some footwear that is required for certain jobs or activities
Appropriately Fitting Footwear
- Choose wide-fit shoes with a roomy toe box
- Look for soft, stretchable uppers that don’t press against the bunion
- Avoid high heels and pointed-toe shoes
Toe Spacers/Separators
- Help realign the big toe and reduce friction
- Can be pre-fabricated or custom-made for better fit
- Useful at night, during rest periods, and especially during the day while walking
Specialty Devices: Infracare 24 Hour Bunion Alignment Device
- Offers gentle correction both during the day and at night
- Dual-splint design supports alignment while allowing movement
- Lightweight, breathable, and easy to wear inside shoes
Preventative Tips
To keep bunions from getting worse or to avoid them altogether, it’s good to consider the following ideas:
- Wear proper footwear early and often
- Limit high heels and narrow shoes
- Stretch your feet and toes regularly
- Use bunion-friendly socks and orthotics as needed
- See a Pedorthist at the earliest signs of bunion formation
Why Should You See a Canadian Certified Pedorthist?
Pedorthists are healthcare professionals that specialize in lower limb biomechanics and can:
- Assess your gait and foot structure
- Fit you with custom orthotics or modifications to footwear
- Monitor changes and adapt your treatment plan over time
- Refer you to a Chiropodist or Footcare Nurse for callus or corn treatment
- Help prevent complications before they arise
While bunions can and often do get worse over time, the right care at the right time can significantly improve comfort and prevent complications. Whether you’re noticing the first signs or are already dealing with bunion pain, it’s never too early, or too late, to seek professional help. A Canadian Certified Pedorthist can guide you toward better foot health with evidence-based, non-invasive treatments.
