Specialised treatment for bunions
A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe. It is a very common problem which generally occurs when the forefoot spreads and the big toe deviates and pushes against the other toes.
When this happens, the prominent bone at the side of the big toe can rub against a person’s shoe, causing it to redden. A sac of fluid called a bursa may also develop in the tissue overlying the prominent bone. This collection of inflamed soft tissues and underlying prominent bone is what we call a ‘bunion’. If left untreated, it can become very painful and lead to further problems such as deformity of the lesser toes and occasionally arthritis.
Orthopaedics SA provides a wide range of bunion correction options, including traditional open bunion removal surgery and minimally invasive (keyhole) options.
bunions frequently asked questions
What are the signs and symptoms of bunions?
A bunion generally results in:
- Development of a firm, bony bump on the base of the big toe.
- Redness, swelling or pain at the base of the big toe.
- Corns and callouses often developing where the first and second toes rub against each other.
What are the causes of bunions?
There is no single cause of bunions, however, several factors can be involved in their development. Bunions can be influenced by:
- Genetics – Bunions tend to run in families but are known to skip generations and are much more common in women.
- Age – With age, the ligaments of the foot weaken in some people quicker than others and the foot naturally broadens. This can cause the big toe to deviate towards the second toe and bunions to develop.
How are bunions diagnosed?
Bunions are diagnosed through a physical exam by your doctor which will involve looking for the deformity that causes the bony and inflamed protrusion known as a bunion. A weight bearing X-ray may be requested to better understand the severity of the deformity and the bunion and determine the best course of treatment.
What are the treatment options for bunions?
There are essentially two types of bunion treatment: conservative management and surgical treatment.
Conservative treatment is beneficial in reducing pain and maintaining some normal function, though it does not fully correct the bunion. Conservative treatment methods may include:
- Sensible shoes – wearing shoes with a broad toe and flat heels can minimise pain and reduce bunion aggravation.
- Bunion pads or splints – some people find these helpful for short-term management, as they can reduce the friction of a shoe on the bunion. However, they do not correct the deformity.
- Anti-inflammatory medication – this may be prescribed by a doctor to reduce pain and inflammation.
Surgical correction provides a more long term solution to bunions. Surgical procedures generally involve not only shaving the prominent bone to remove the bunion but realigning the big toe and narrowing the forefoot. This usually involves cutting and moving the bone(s) and holding the improved position with screws.
There are two main types of bunion surgery:
- Open technique – this is the traditional option for bunion correction. There are many types of open bunion surgery, and your orthopaedic surgeon will be able to recommend one best suited to your case. For more information on this technique, visit our open bunion surgery treatment page.
- Minimally invasive (keyhole) bunion surgery – this bunion treatment method is newer, but has become more popular in recent years. It involves operating on the bunion through several very small incisions which causes minimal damage to surrounding tissues. To learn more about minimally invasive bunion surgery, visit our keyhole bunion surgery treatment page.
Orthopaedics SA provides both minimally invasive and traditional open bunion surgery for patients across South Australia.
Ankle & foot treatments
Ankle Arthroscopy
Ankle arthroscopy is most often performed to remove scar tissue and inflammation or to remove small detachments of bone and cartilage. Recent advances have permitted surgical procedures to be performed inside joints without opening the joints by traditional methods. Using
Ankle Block for Foot Surgery
Nearly all mid and forefoot surgery can be comfortably and reliably performed using local anaesthesia (ankle block). Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Surgeon, Dr George Dracopoulos and Anaesthetist, Dr Glenda Rudkin have recently completed a six year study of 1000 patients
Ankle Ligament Reconstruction
At Orthopaedics SA, we provide high-quality care for all of your musculoskeletal needs, including ankle ligament reconstruction surgery, a medical procedure that is used to treat ankle sprains and instability. Ankle ligaments are tough bands of tissue that connect the
Keyhole (Minimally Invasive) Bunion Surgery
Minimally invasive (keyhole) bunion surgery is a technique that reduces the size of the incisions during the surgical procedure. Using specialised small tools, your surgeon performs the entire bunion removal surgery through several small cuts, reducing scarring and recovery time.
Open Bunion Surgery
There are over 150 different surgical options for correcting a bunion, but they all tend to involve moving the bone(s) to narrow the foot and realign the big toe as well as shaving off the bunion. Keyhole bunion surgery is
Total Ankle Replacement
Though a generally uncommon procedure, total ankle replacement can drastically reduce pain and restore movement, particularly in people who suffer from conditions such as ankle arthritis. Operating from locations across Adelaide, Orthopaedics SA surgeons supply uniquely tailored assessments and treatments
Why Orthopaedics SA?
Comprehensive care
From arthritis to sports injuries, we treat a full spectrum of bone and joint conditions to keep you moving.
Expert surgeons
Our highly trained doctors have years of experience delivering precise and effective treatments.
SA’s largest practice
With 23 specialists, we offer unmatched expertise and evidence-based care for every patient.
Multiple locations
We have multiple clinics across South Australia, making it simple to find expert care nearby.
Patient-centric approach
We prioritise understanding your condition to ensure every treatment recommendation feels right for you.
Reliable support
Our team of nurses and administrative staff works behind the scenes to make your experience smooth and stress-free.
Meet our doctors
Our surgeons are highly qualified to offer personalised treatments tailored to your needs. We take the time to listen, explain your options, and ensure every decision is made with your well-being in mind.
We take responsibility for our patient’s experience
From your initial consultation to follow-up care, our team will guide you through every step of your treatment. Your specialist will provide a detailed recovery plan, including physical therapy to restore function and prevent future injuries.