What are bunions and why is it important to react on time?
Bunions (hallux valgus) are a foot deformity that occurs when the big toe gradually moves toward the other toes, while the bone on the inner side of the foot begins to protrude. Although they may seem like merely a cosmetic issue at first glance, bunions are much more than that – they often cause pain, difficulty walking, and reduced mobility.
In the early stages, bunions may appear harmless, but if not addressed in time, the condition usually progresses and leads to more serious problems. Walking becomes unnatural, joint pressure increases, and everyday activities – from walking to wearing shoes – can become painful and uncomfortable.
That is why it is important to recognize the problem early and consult professionals. Timely intervention allows for the application of appropriate therapies that relieve pain, slow the progression of the deformity, and significantly improve quality of life.
How to recognize bunions? – Symptoms and early signs!
The first signs of bunions are often subtle and easily overlooked, as they do not immediately cause severe pain. However, it is precisely in this early stage that it is important to pay attention to the symptoms and act promptly to prevent worsening.
The most common symptoms of bunions include:
A visible bump on the inner side of the foot near the big toe – small at first, but becoming more pronounced over time.
Redness and swelling around the big toe joint – especially after wearing tight or uncomfortable shoes.
Pain in the front part of the foot that increases during prolonged walking, standing, or physical activity.
A feeling of stiffness and reduced mobility of the big toe, making normal bending and push-off while walking difficult.
Changes in gait – unconsciously adjusting steps to avoid pain, which leads to uneven weight distribution.
Blisters and thickened skin in areas where the bunion rubs against shoes.
Early discomforts that patients usually notice:
Initially, there is discomfort in shoes, a feeling that the foot is “tight,” or that the big toe is pushed toward the other toes. This is followed by occasional pain and joint inflammation, and later by a permanent deformity that complicates shoe choice and normal walking.
Why it is important not to ignore the symptoms:
Many people delay seeing a specialist because they think bunions are only a cosmetic problem. However, pain and deformity almost always worsen over time, and later treatment becomes more complex and time-consuming. Early recognition of symptoms and starting therapy are crucial for stopping progression and maintaining foot functionality.
Why do bunions develop? – Main causes of the problem
The development of bunions is not caused by a single factor, but by a combination of genetic predispositions, lifestyle habits, and external influences. Understanding the causes is crucial, as it allows for better prevention and the proper choice of therapy.
Genetic factor
Genetics is one of the most common reasons for the appearance of bunions. If parents or grandparents had bunions, there is a high likelihood that a similar deformity will develop in their offspring. What is primarily inherited is the shape of the foot (e.g., flat feet, weaker ligament tone), which predisposes to the problem.
Inappropriate footwear
Wearing tight, narrow, or high-heeled shoes for prolonged periods is one of the most common “triggers.” High heels shift body weight to the front of the foot, creating additional pressure on the big toe. A narrow toe box further pushes the big toe toward the other toes, accelerating the development of the deformity.
Structural and mechanical foot changes
Certain foot shapes, such as flat feet or lowered arches, increase the risk of uneven pressure distribution during walking. Over time, this leads to gradual bending of the big toe.
Hormonal and gender factors
Women are more prone to developing bunions, which is associated both with hormonal influences and the more frequent use of uncomfortable shoes. Statistics show that women are up to ten times more likely to develop bunions than men.
Injuries and inflammatory conditions
Foot injuries, rheumatoid arthritis, or other inflammatory joint diseases can accelerate big toe deformity and bunion formation. Inflammatory processes further weaken the ligaments and tendons that hold the big toe in the correct position.
Lifestyle and load
Prolonged standing, excess body weight, or daily activities that overstrain the feet contribute to faster bunion development. In people who spend a lot of time on their feet (e.g., salespeople, medical staff, hairdressers), symptoms often appear earlier.
How do bunions affect daily life and walking?
Although bunions are often initially perceived as a minor inconvenience or merely a cosmetic issue, over time they become a significant factor affecting quality of life. Walking, mobility, and comfort in daily activities gradually worsen as the deformity progresses.
Pain while walking and standing
Pain is the most common symptom that prompts patients to seek help. It occurs in the front part of the foot, especially during prolonged walking, standing, or wearing tight shoes. In advanced cases, pain may even be present at rest.
Changes in gait
To avoid pressure on the painful area, many unconsciously alter the way they walk. This leads to uneven distribution of weight on other foot joints, knees, hips, and the spine. Over time, these compensations can cause additional pain and deformities.
Difficulty choosing footwear
People with bunions often cannot find comfortable shoes that do not cause pain or worsen the condition. Narrow or standard shoes accelerate the progression of the deformity, while softer and wider shoes may not provide enough support for the foot.
Occurrence of secondary problems
Due to pressure and friction, blisters, corns, and thickened skin may develop. Improper weight distribution can also lead to heel pain (plantar fasciitis) or pain in the front part of the foot (metatarsalgia).
Psychological and aesthetic aspects
In addition to physical discomfort, many patients experience a psychological burden. They avoid open shoes, feel self-conscious in social situations, and become insecure about the appearance of their feet.
Bunion treatment at the Fizio and Estetik Center In Locco
Unlike the usual approach, where bunions are seen only as a cosmetic issue or treatment is limited solely to surgery, at the Fizio and Estetik Center In Locco we apply modern, non-surgical methods that relieve pain, restore functionality, and slow the progression of the deformity. Our goal is for patients to regain comfort while walking and improve their quality of daily life as quickly as possible.
Individual therapy plan
Every patient is unique, so the treatment approach must be personalized. During the initial examination, we thoroughly analyze the condition of the foot, the degree of deformity, gait, and weight distribution. Based on this, we create a therapy plan tailored to the patient’s needs and goals.
Physical therapy to reduce pain and inflammation
We use a combination of advanced physical therapy methods that have proven effective for bunion problems:
Shockwave therapy – effective for stubborn pain and chronic conditions.
The most effective therapy, reducing the bunion by over 70%.Laser therapy – accelerates circulation, reduces inflammation, and eases pain in the big toe joint.
Magnetotherapy – promotes tissue regeneration and improves mobility.
Electrotherapy and ultrasound – help relax soft tissues and reduce pressure on the joint.
These methods allow patients to experience relief even after the first treatments.
Kinesiotherapy and specialized exercises
In addition to physical procedures, an important part of our program is kinesiotherapy – targeted exercises that strengthen the muscles of the foot and lower leg, improve stability, and reduce load on the big toe. This approach addresses the root cause of the problem, not just the symptoms.
Gait correction and education
We help patients adopt proper walking patterns and body posture, as improper weight distribution often places additional strain on the feet. We also educate them about choosing appropriate footwear, orthopedic aids, and habits that can slow the progression of bunions.
Our advantages compared to the traditional approach
Non-surgical solution – postpones or completely eliminates the need for surgery.
Rapid symptom relief – pain and swelling are significantly reduced after just a few treatments.
Holistic approach – combines therapy, exercises, and education.
Safe and drug-free – the body’s natural regenerative processes are stimulated through therapy.
Exercises and kinesiotherapy as support for therapy
Although physical procedures quickly relieve pain and inflammation, lasting results in bunion treatment cannot be achieved without the patient’s active involvement through exercises and kinesiotherapy. That is why at the Fizio and Estetik Center In Locco, we combine therapeutic methods with targeted kinesiotherapy, which strengthens muscles, improves stability, and prevents further progression of the deformity.
Why are exercises important?
Bunions develop and progress when there is a muscular imbalance and improper weight distribution in the foot. Specialized exercises:
Strengthen the muscles that hold the big toe in the correct position,
Improve joint mobility,
Reduce stiffness and pain,
Correct gait patterns and relieve pressure on the front of the foot.
Examples of exercises we use:
Big toe stretching exercises – gently pulling the toe outward to restore a more natural position.
Foot muscle activation – exercises that involve grasping objects with the toes (e.g., towel or pencil).
Rotational exercises – circular movements in the big toe joint to increase mobility.
Balance and proprioception exercises – standing on one leg or on balance pads to improve stability.
All exercises are performed under the supervision of a physiotherapist to ensure correct technique and safety, and later patients are trained to continue part of the program at home.
Advantages of kinesiotherapy at our center
Exercises are personalized – adapted to the degree of deformity and the patient’s capabilities.
We include a combination of functional and corrective movements that provide long-term results.
Kinesiotherapy is combined with physical procedures for maximum effect.
Prevention: how to prevent the development and progression of bunions?
Although genetics play a significant role in the development of bunions, proper habits and foot care can significantly slow down or even prevent their progression. Prevention is especially important for individuals with a family predisposition or those who already notice early symptoms.
Proper footwear
Choose wider, comfortable shoes with enough space for the toes.
Avoid narrow shoes with pointed toes or high heels that push the big toe inward.
Prefer shoes with soft soles and stable heels that distribute pressure properly.
Orthopedic insoles and aids
Orthopedic insoles or toe separators can help distribute pressure evenly and keep the big toe in a favorable position. At the Fizio In Locco Center, we advise patients on which aids are best suited for their feet.
Regular strengthening and stretching of the feet
Foot exercises are not only useful during treatment – they are a key preventive measure. A few minutes daily dedicated to kinesiotherapy (big toe stretches, towel-grasping with toes, balance exercises) can make a big difference.
Weight management
Excess body weight increases pressure on the feet and accelerates deformity development. Maintaining a healthy body weight relieves the feet and reduces the risk of complications.
Regular professional check-ups
Even when symptoms seem mild, it is recommended to have periodic evaluations by a physiotherapist or orthopedic specialist. Timely assessment allows for the immediate implementation of appropriate measures and prevents further worsening.