18 Jun The Role of Physiotherapy in Non-surgical Bunion Correction
Introduction:
Bunions are a common foot deformity that can cause discomfort and affect daily activities. While surgical intervention may be necessary in severe cases, there are exercises and lifestyle changes that can help alleviate symptoms and potentially slow down the progression of bunions. As a Chartered Physiotherapist, I would like to share some insights into correcting bunions naturally. In addition, the importance of wearing shoes with a wide toe box and a flexible sole for optimal foot health.
A bunion is one of the most common foot deformities. Around 30% of the western world has a bunion. It is important to understand what a bunion is, in order to motivate you to treat it!
A bunion (Hallux Valgus), is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe. It occurs when the joint at the base of the toe becomes misaligned, causing the big toe to angle inward towards the other toes. This can cause pain, rubbing off the shoes and a change in walking and running pattern. The bony bump is not an extra bone growth but more a bump cause by the toe become misaligned, causing the bone to shift and the joint to become misplaced.
Bunions can vary in size and severity, and they may cause discomfort, pain, swelling, and difficulty finding comfortable footwear. Similarly, a bunion can form on the pinky toe, which is referred to as a Tailor’s Bunion and can cause similar symptoms and issues, but they develop on the outside of the foot near the pinky toe.
While bunions can be a source of discomfort and frustration, there are non-surgical approaches that can aid in their correction. Incorporating targeted exercises to improve toe alignment and foot mechanics, along with wearing shoes that offer a wide toe box and a flexible sole, can significantly contribute to bunion relief and potential correction. However, it’s essential to consult with a chartered physiotherapist or a healthcare professional to assess your specific condition and receive personalized guidance on exercise intensity and frequency. By taking a proactive approach, you can promote foot health, minimise pain, and improve your overall quality of life.
There are 5 simple exercises that you can do alongside looking at your footwear to correct your bunion. These will all be covered in my course ‘Beat Your Bunion’ due for release soon. You can also book an appointment in clinic where we will look for the cause of your bunion and treat accordingly.
** I will soon be releasing my course ‘Beat Your Bunion’ which will have everything you need to improve your bunion. If you would like early access to this course please join my mailing list https://mailchi.mp/harmonyphysiotherapyjersey.com/newsletter
