Struggling With Bunions (Hallux Valgus)?
What’s Really Causing It — and How We Treat It
If you’ve noticed a painful bony bump forming at the base of your big toe, or your toe is starting to angle towards the others, you’re not alone.
Bunions (hallux valgus) are a common foot condition — and while they can worsen over time, early treatment can significantly reduce pain and slow progression.
At We Fix Feet, we specialise in diagnosing and managing bunions by identifying why the joint is under stress — whether it’s foot structure, footwear, arthritis, or biomechanics — and creating a personalised plan to protect your feet and improve comfort.
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What Are Bunions (Hallux Valgus)?
A bunion, medically known as hallux valgus, is a bony prominence that develops at the base of the big toe when the joint becomes misaligned. Over time, the big toe gradually drifts towards the smaller toes, forcing the joint outward.
Common symptoms include pain, swelling, redness, stiffness, and difficulty finding comfortable footwear. Bunions may worsen gradually if left untreated.
How We Treat Bunion Pain
At We Fix Feet, we offer a range of personalised, evidence-based treatments designed to reduce pain, protect the joint, and slow progression:
- Footwear Advice & Modifications – Wide toe boxes and supportive soles to reduce pressure
- Custom Orthotics – Supporting foot structure and redistributing pressure away from the bunion
- Protective Padding – Cushioning the joint and reducing friction
- K-Laser Therapy – Reducing inflammation, relieving pain, and accelerating healing
- Focused Shockwave Therapy – Providing analgesic effect, reducing inflammation, and improving movement
- Ice Therapy Advice – Helping control swelling and discomfort
- Pain Relief Guidance – Advice on appropriate over-the-counter pain relief where needed
- Surgical Referral (when required) – Considered only when conservative care is no longer effective
Treatment is always tailored to your lifestyle, footwear needs, and severity of symptoms.
Causes & Risk Factors
Bunions often develop due to a combination of factors, including:
● Genetics – A family history of bunions
● Foot structure – Flat feet or low arches
● Arthritis – Including rheumatoid arthritis
● Footwear – Tight, narrow, or high-heeled shoes
● Biomechanical stress – Poor foot function placing excess pressure on the big toe joint
Identifying the cause helps prevent bunions from worsening.
BOOK YOUR CONSULTATION TODAY
If bunion pain is affecting your comfort, footwear choices, or daily activity, book an assessment at We Fix Feet today.
We’ll explain what’s happening, outline your treatment options clearly, and help you protect your feet for the long term.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Bunion
What is a bunion?
A bunion is a bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of your big toe. It develops when your toe is pushed out of alignment, often due to genetics, footwear, or biomechanical issues.
What are the symptoms of a bunion?
Symptoms include swelling, redness, tenderness, and pain around the big toe joint. Some people also experience difficulty wearing shoes or walking comfortably.
What causes bunions?
Bunions are caused by a combination of genetics, foot mechanics, tight or narrow shoes, and repetitive pressure on the joint. Early assessment can help prevent worsening.
Can a bunion go away on its own?
No, bunions are structural changes and do not reverse naturally. However, early intervention with orthotics, footwear advice, and therapy can reduce pain and slow progression.
How are bunions treated?
Treatment depends on severity and may include:
- Custom orthotic insoles to improve foot alignment
- Footwear modifications
- K-Laser Therapy for inflammation and pain relief
- Shockwave Therapy for associated soft tissue pain
Surgery is only considered in severe cases where conservative care is insufficient.
Will orthotics help my bunion?
Yes. Custom insoles reduce pressure on the big toe joint, correct foot mechanics, and improve comfort. Many patients experience significant pain relief without surgery.
How long does it take to see improvement?
Patients often notice pain reduction within a few weeks when combining orthotics, footwear changes, and therapy. Chronic or severe cases may take longer and may require ongoing support; however, it’s important to note that we cannot straighten the toe through conservative care alone, as correcting the toe’s alignment would require surgical intervention.
Can I still wear normal shoes?
Shoes with a wide toe box and proper support are recommended. Your clinician can advise on footwear and modifications to reduce pressure on the bunion while you recover.
When is Shockwave or K-Laser Therapy recommended?
These therapies are effective for reducing inflammation, pain, and soft tissue stress around the bunion. A specialist assessment helps determine which therapy suits your conditio
When should I see a specialist for ankle pain?
See a specialist if your bunion causes persistent pain, swelling, difficulty walking, or affects daily activities. Early assessment can help reduce pain, improve mobility, and prevent further progression.
Book a consultation today
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Our Clinic Locations
We have two convenient locations in Beeston and Ilkeston, making expert podiatry and sports rehabilitation accessible across Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire.
Ilkeston Clinic
- Open: Mon-Fri 09:00AM - 05:00PM / Sat 09:00AM - 01:00PM
- 94 Bath Street, Ilkeston, Derbyshire DE7 8FE
- +44 115 932 8832
- enquiries@wefixfeet.co.uk
Beeston Clinic
- Open: Mon-Fri 09:00AM - 05:00PM / Sat 09:00AM - 01:00PM
- 36a The Square, Beeston, Nottinghamshire NG9 2JJ.
- +44 115 922 3377.
- enquiries@wefixfeet.co.uk
Testimonials
Before You Book Your Appointment, Here’s Just A Handful Of Our Patients Success Stories To Put Your Mind At Ease
I had an ingrown toenail which I had left way too long and had become infected. I finally plucked up the courage to visit We Fix Feet in Ilkeston. My only regret is not visiting sooner! Ronnie was able to remove the portion of ingrown toenail at my first appointment, and within a day or two, my nail was perfect. After hiding my feet for many years I finally have a healthy set of toenails and have treated myself to my first ever pair of open toe sandals! All the staff here are wonderful, professional and very reassuring for which I am very grateful. Thank you
I had an ingrown toenail which I had left way too long and had become infected. I finally plucked up the courage to visit We Fix Feet in Ilkeston. My only regret is not visiting sooner! Ronnie was able to remove the portion of ingrown toenail at my first appointment, and within a day or two, my nail was perfect. After hiding my feet for many years I finally have a healthy set of toenails and have treated myself to my first ever pair of open toe sandals! All the staff here are wonderful, professional and very reassuring for which I am very grateful. Thank you
