What Is a Bunion and When Should You See a Foot and Ankle Specialist?

A bunion, medically known as hallux valgus, is a painful bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe. It develops when the big toe shifts toward the second toe, causing joint misalignment and inflammation. Many patients initially ignore mild symptoms, but untreated bunions can lead to chronic pain, difficulty walking, and progressive deformity.

This case study highlights how early diagnosis and personalized foot and ankle treatment in Chennai helped a patient regain pain-free mobility.

Patient Profile: Chronic Bunion Pain Affecting Daily Mobility

• Age: 52 years

• Gender: Female

• Location: Chennai

• Complaint: Painful swelling near the base of the right big toe for 1 year

• Symptoms: Foot pain while walking, redness, difficulty wearing closed footwear

The patient visited our foot and ankle clinic after experiencing worsening pain that interfered with daily activities and prolonged standing. Conservative remedies like shoe padding and pain balms provided only temporary relief.

Clinical Evaluation: How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

During the initial orthopaedic consultation, a comprehensive assessment was performed.

Physical Examination

• Visible bony prominence at the big toe joint

• Tenderness and redness over the bunion

• Reduced toe flexibility

• Altered gait pattern

Diagnostic Imaging

• Weight-bearing X-ray of the foot

• Measurement of hallux valgus angle

• Assessment of joint alignment and cartilage health

The imaging confirmed moderate hallux valgus deformity with joint inflammation, indicating that non-surgical management alone would not provide long-term relief.

Personalized Bunion Treatment Plan: Non-Surgical vs Surgical Options

Step 1: Conservative Management for Bunion Pain

Initially, a non-surgical treatment plan was recommended:

• Custom orthotic shoe inserts

• Anti-inflammatory medications

• Foot strengthening and stretching exercises

• Footwear modification guidance

Despite consistent adherence for six weeks, the patient reported only partial improvement.

When Is Bunion Surgery Recommended?

Because pain persisted and deformity progression was evident, surgical correction was advised. Many patients ask:

Is bunion surgery necessary?
Surgery is recommended when:

• Pain affects daily walking

• Conservative treatment fails

• Deformity worsens

• Joint damage is visible on X-ray

After detailed counseling, the patient opted for minimally invasive bunion correction surgery.

Advanced Foot and Ankle Surgery for Hallux Valgus

The procedure performed was a corrective osteotomy, a commonly used bunion surgery technique.

Surgical Highlights:

• Realignment of the big toe joint

• Removal of bony prominence

• Stabilization using small surgical screws

• Minimal incision approach

The surgery lasted approximately 60 minutes and was performed under regional anesthesia. The patient was discharged the same day.

Post-Surgical Rehabilitation and Recovery Timeline

Week 1–2:

• Protective footwear

• Controlled weight-bearing

• Pain and swelling management

Week 3–6:

• Gradual return to normal walking

• Toe mobility exercises

• Follow-up X-ray for alignment assessment

Week 8–12:

• Resumption of daily activities

• Improved toe alignment

• Significant reduction in pain

By the 12-week follow-up, the patient reported:

• Pain-free walking

• Ability to wear regular footwear

• Improved foot appearance

• Restored confidence in mobility

Before and After Results: What Changed?

Before Treatment:

• Severe bunion pain

• Difficulty walking

• Cosmetic deformity

• Shoe-fitting issues

After Treatment:

• Corrected toe alignment

• No persistent pain

• Normal gait pattern

• Improved quality of life

Radiographic comparison confirmed proper joint alignment and stable correction.

Key Insights About Bunion Treatment in Chennai

This case demonstrates that:

• Early orthopaedic evaluation prevents complications

• X-ray diagnosis is essential for treatment planning

• Non-surgical treatment works in mild cases

• Advanced bunion surgery offers lasting correction

• Post-operative physiotherapy improves outcomes

Patients searching for “best bunion treatment near me” or “foot and ankle specialist in Chennai” benefit from structured, evidence-based care tailored to their condition.

Conclusion: Expert Foot and Ankle Care Restores Mobility

Bunions should never be ignored when pain interferes with daily life. This case study highlights how timely intervention, advanced imaging, and corrective foot surgery helped a patient regain comfort and mobility. With modern orthopedic techniques and personalized rehabilitation, bunion treatment in Chennai can provide long-term relief and improved foot health.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bunions