Bunions Q&As
Published by Bupa's health information team, July 2009.
Answers to questions about bunions
This section contains answers to common questions about this topic. Questions have been suggested by health professionals, website feedback and requests via email.
- If I have a bunion, does it mean I'll get osteoarthritis in my big toe?
- What is a podiatrist and how can I find one?
- How long will it take until I can walk after bunion surgery?
If I have a bunion, does it mean I'll get osteoarthritis in my big toe?
No, not everyone with a bunion goes on to develop osteoarthritis. However, it's thought that the movement of the big toe inwards may be a factor in the development of the disease for some people.
Explanation
Osteoarthritis is a condition that affects your joints making them stiff and painful. The exact causes of osteoarthritis aren't fully understood at present.
Arthritis means inflammation of the joints. You can think of osteoarthritis as a 'wear and tear' disease. The joints most affected by osteoarthritis are your knees, hips, hands and big toes. Arthritis causes the cartilage on the end of your bones to get rougher and thinner. The bone beneath compensates by thickening and growing outwards, creating outgrowths (osteophytes). These make your joint look misshapen and knobbly. The capsule around the joint also thickens and becomes inflamed.
Having a bunion doesn't mean that you will automatically develop osteoarthritis in the joint at the base of your big toe. However, the toe joint is more prone to osteoarthritis than any other in your foot because of the pressure put on it when you're walking. The misalignment of your big toe causes the surfaces of the joints to become mismatched. This increases the risk of osteoarthritis.
If you have any concerns about bunions or osteoarthritis, talk to your GP.
Further information
- The Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists
020 7234 8620
www.feetforlife.org - Arthritis Research Campaign
0870 850 5000
www.arc.org.uk
Sources
- Osteoarthritis. The Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists. www.feetforlife.org, accessed 2 March 2009
What is a podiatrist and how can I find one?
A podiatrist is a health professional who treats conditions affecting your feet. Your GP may be able to refer you to a podiatrist, or you can find one by contacting professional bodies such as the Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists.
Explanation
A podiatrist is a health professional who treats problems with feet, and is trained to treat people with medical conditions like arthritis and diabetes as well as sports injuries. Podiatrists are also able to diagnose conditions and give you advice on how to take care of your feet. They are sometimes called chiropodists as well. Podiatrists aren't doctors, but they do have specialist training and often work closely with doctors.
A podiatrist can recommend exercises, devices and shoe alterations which may help relieve your symptoms and prevent your bunion from getting any worse. However, they aren't able to cure your condition. For this you may be referred to a podiatric surgeon. A podiatric surgeon is a podiatrist who is specially trained to be able to carry out surgical procedures. This includes treating bunions. Orthopaedic surgeons also provide this type of treatment.
There are several ways that you can get in touch with a podiatrist. Your GP may be able to either recommend someone in your local area or refer you to a podiatrist. Or you can contact the Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists who represent over 10,000 practising podiatrists. It's important to find a podiatrist or chiropodist who is a member of the Health Professions Council (HPC). This will ensure that you see a registered professional.
If you have any question about podiatry or bunions, talk to your GP.
Further information
- The Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists
020 7234 8620
www.feetforlife.org
Sources
- Chiropodists and podiatrists. The Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists. www.feetforlife.org, accessed 1 March 2009
- About podiatric surgeons. The Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists. www.feetforlife.org, accessed 1 March 2009
- Find a local Chiropodist or Podiatrist. The Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists. www.feetforlife.org, accessed 1 March 2009
How long will it take until I can walk after bunion surgery?
On average, the initial recovery from bunion surgery takes about six weeks, depending on the type of operation you have had.
Explanation
The length of time it takes you to recover from bunion surgery will depend on the type of operation you have. After your operation, you may not be able to put your weight fully on your foot for up to six weeks. You may have to wear a plaster cast or a protective shoe after some types of operation.
Depending on the type of operation, you may be able to walk on the foot immediately, or you may be asked to keep your weight off the affected foot. If necessary, you can use crutches for the first few weeks.
It can take up to three months until you can walk normally. However, it's important to remember that individual recovery times can vary. One person may feel no pain and recover very quickly, whereas another may be in discomfort and take a long time to heal - it depends on your individual circumstances.
When you can return to work will depend on the type of operation you have had, and how much time you spend on your feet doing your job. Your surgeon will give you advice about returning to work.
If you have any questions or concerns about bunions or surgery to correct them, talk to your GP or surgeon.
Further information
- British Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society
www.bofas.org.uk - The Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists
020 7234 8620
www.feetforlife.org
Sources
- Bunion/bunions/toe deformities. The Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists. www.feetforlife.org, accessed 1 March 2009
This information was published by Bupa's health information team and is based on reputable sources of medical evidence. It has been peer reviewed by Bupa doctors. The content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.
Publication date: July 2009
Rate this page
