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Can Physiotherapy Help with Bunions?

Foot, Uncategorized, Blog, / By Koh Peh Chia

Bunions, otherwise known as Hallux Valgus, is the most common foot deformity. In this blog, we share what can cause and how physiotherapy helps in managing this condition.

What Is A Bunion?

Hallux valgus is a foot deformity that which the first toe joint is gradually pushed in. This results in the first toe to be pointed inwards. Furthermore, this leads to the development of a bony prominence at the inner side of your foot, known as the bunion. Often, the development of the bunion can lead to pain or impaired movement.

Factors That Can Cause a Bunions

  • Gender – Bunions are seen 10x more frequently than men
  •  Footwear Choice – Tight, pointed shoes or heeled shoes can cause bunions
  • Congenital deformity
  • Severe Flatfoot
  • Achilles Tightness

How Bunions Can Affect You

Not all bunions will affect individuals. However, these are a few common symptoms we see among many:

  • Pain and swelling in the big toe joint that gets worse with moving
  • An affected gait, increasing the difficulty walking
  • Lost in balance
  • Pain when wearing shoes

How Can Physiotherapy Help

With the correct exercises and treatments, physiotherapy is particularly useful in treating bunions. Firstly, physiotherapy can help restore strength and motion in your big toe. On top of that, we will manage the pain as well as give you recommendations on what footwear that is appropriate for you.

If you are keen on getting your bunion checked out or have any more questions, feel free to contact us to book your appointment.

Winsen Citra

Principal Physiotherapist

Sources:

Mortka K, Lisiński P. Hallux valgus-a case for a physiotherapist or only for a surgeon? Literature review. J Phys Ther Sci. 2015 Oct;27(10):3303-7. doi: 10.1589/jpts.27.3303. Epub 2015 Oct 30. PMID: 26644698; PMCID: PMC4668189.

Nix, S., Smith, M., & Vicenzino, B. (2010). Prevalence of hallux valgus in the general population: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of foot and ankle research3, 21. https://doi.org/10.1186/1757-1146-3-21

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