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Bunion (hallux valgus)

The big toe drifts across and a bump forms at its base. It is largely inherited — shoes do not cause it, though they certainly make it hurt.

Do not wait for an appointment

  • The skin over the bump is broken, red or ulcerated
  • You are diabetic and the skin is breaking down anywhere on the foot
  • Sudden severe pain, redness and swelling — this may be gout or infection
  • Numbness in the toes
Sheet 44 · Foot and toe exercisesFoot & ankleSlowly progressive; well managed without surgery for years

Do this

  • Wear shoes with a wide toe box. Measuring the foot and matching the shoe width is the single most useful thing here
  • A toe spacer or a bunion pad for comfort
  • Foot exercises — Sheet 44
  • Treat the pain, not the shape

Avoid this

  • Buying splints that promise to straighten the toe. They do not correct the deformity
  • Narrow, pointed or high-heeled shoes
  • Having surgery for the appearance alone
  • Expecting a slim, straight toe after surgery

The questions everybody asks

Will a splint straighten it?

No.

Night splints and toe correctors are widely sold. They may ease discomfort; they do not correct the bone alignment. We would rather you spent the money on shoes that fit.

Should I have it operated on?

Only if it hurts.

Bunion surgery is effective for pain. It is not cosmetic surgery, and operating on a painless bunion is not something we would advise.

What will it be like afterwards?

Straighter, but not slim and not a normal-looking toe — and swollen for six to twelve months.

We say this beforehand, because that swelling alarms people at three months who were never warned.

Open the exercise sheet

Pictures, how many and how often, and what it should feel like. Free, and printable.

On cost: if we suggest a scan, an injection or an operation, ask us what it costs and what happens if you do nothing. We will answer both. You should never feel pushed into spending money.

Consultation is ₹500 for a first visit and ₹300 for a follow-up, the same at both clinics. For anything else, ask at the desk or on WhatsApp before it is done — we will tell you the exact cost.

Should you come and see us?

A page is a starting point, not a diagnosis. If the pain is not settling, come in and have it looked at properly — bring any X-ray, MRI or CT films you already have.

Nallasopara West

Opposite Patil Hospital

Shop No. 14, Veena Apartment,
Opposite Patil Hospital, near Panchmukhi Hanuman Mandir,
S.T. Stand Road, Nallasopara West — 401203

Monday to Saturday
12:00 noon – 2:00 pm  ·  7:30 pm – 9:30 pm
Sunday by prior appointment only

Virar East

Opposite Parimal Hospital

Shop No. 7, Damodar Tower,
Opposite Parimal Hospital, Morya Nagar,
Manvel Pada Road, Virar East — 401305

Monday to Saturday
5:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Sunday by prior appointment only

Ready when you are.

Call either clinic during consulting hours, or send a WhatsApp message any time.