In the case of a bunion, the position of the big toe and the big toe joint changes. The toe becomes misaligned and the joint may protrude outwards.

The big toe is important for stability and the rolling motion of the foot whilst walking. If the toe is crooked, the foot may move differently.

A misalignment of the big toe often develops gradually. Usually, several factors are involved.

Possible causes include:

genetic predisposition;
a foot that tilts inwards;
narrow or pointed shoes;
a lot of pressure on the forefoot;
rheumatism or osteoarthritis;
a previous injury;
certain sports or physical exertion.

Symptoms vary from person to person. Some people are mainly bothered by the lump. Others experience pain throughout the forefoot.

You may notice that:

the big toe is crooked;
a painful lump develops;
shoes put pressure on the lump;
the skin becomes red or warm;
the big toe presses against the second toe;
calluses or corns develop;
walking or moving becomes painful.

Getting enough exercise remains important for keeping your feet and legs strong. However, it is important that the level of exertion is appropriate for what your feet can cope with.

Well-fitting shoes with sufficient space for the toes help to reduce pressure on the forefoot and the big toe. Activities or shoes that put a lot of pressure on the big toe can make symptoms worse.

A healthy body weight can help to reduce the strain on your feet. A good balance between exercise, standing, walking and rest can also help to manage symptoms more effectively. Pain or difficulty walking can affect your daily activities and how you feel.

Our lifestyle coaches helping people adopt healthy habits and a lifestyle that puts less strain on their feet.

There are various things you can do yourself to alleviate symptoms and provide the best possible support for your feet.

You can:

wear shoes with sufficient width at the forefoot;
avoid narrow or pointed shoes;
limit the wearing of high heels;
check for pressure sores;
don’t put up with the pain for too long;
seek advice if the toe starts to turn inwards.

Our podiatrists cannot correct the misalignment, but we can often help to reduce pain and pressure.

Treatment may consist of:

shoe advice;
podiatry insoles to reduce pressure around the big toe joint;
a silicone orthosis or toe cap;
felt therapy for a painful or inflamed bursa;
treatment of calluses or corns;
referral to a GP or specialist in the event of serious or persistent symptoms.

Together, we’ll look at what’s needed to keep you walking comfortably.

If you have a misaligned big toe, it is important to bear this in mind when buying new shoes. Please note the following:

sufficient length and width, so that the toes have room. Shoes that are too narrow actually put extra pressure on the big toe;
Buy shoes at the end of the day, as your feet are often slightly swollen by then. That way, you can be sure the shoes fit properly;
shoes made from soft and supple materials. Soft leather or supple fabric moulds better to the foot. This puts less pressure on the bump at the big toe;
a good flex point on the shoe. The shoe must bend at the same point as your forefoot.

Rondom Shoes

Good shoes can prevent many ailments. At Rondom Shoes We’ll help you choose shoes that suit your feet and your everyday life. This will help you reduce any discomfort and prevent new problems as far as possible.

At Rondom Schoenen, we use our knowledge and experience to put together a suitable range of shoes. In doing so, we take into account different foot shapes, needs and styles. We ensure there is a sufficient choice of good-quality shoes, across various price ranges.

Rondom Schoenen also has a knowledge base! Here you will find tips and information to help you choose the right shoes.

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