Understanding Bunion (Hallux Valgus): Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments
Expert Insights by Dr. Ashwin Chowdhary, Foot & Ankle Specialist
A bunion, or hallux valgus, is more than just a bump on the side of your foot—it’s a progressive deformity of the big toe joint that can lead to chronic pain and limited mobility. According to Dr. Ashwin Chowdhary, one of the leading foot and ankle surgeons in Kolkata, early intervention is key to preventing further complications.
🔍 What Causes a Bunion?
Dr. Chowdhary explains that bunions form when the bones in the front part of your foot shift out of place, causing the tip of your big toe to lean toward the second toe. The resulting joint misalignment leads to the characteristic bulge.
Common causes include:
- Genetics: If bunions run in your family, you’re at higher risk.
- Improper footwear: Pointed or tight shoes, especially high heels, can worsen bunions.
- Foot mechanics: Flat feet, overpronation, or abnormal bone structure.
- Arthritis: Inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis.
- Injury or trauma to the foot.
⚠️ Symptoms to Watch For
- A visible bump at the base of the big toe
- Swelling, redness, or tenderness around the joint
- Pain that worsens when walking or standing
- Restricted toe movement
- Corns or calluses due to overlapping toes
If you experience any of these symptoms, Dr. Chowdhary recommends a clinical assessment and X-ray to evaluate the severity.
💡 Treatment Options
🩺 Non-Surgical Management:
Dr. Ashwin Chowdhary focuses first on conservative options:
- Wider shoes with soft soles
- Bunion pads and orthotic inserts
- Anti-inflammatory medications for pain relief
- Icing and elevation
- Physiotherapy to strengthen foot muscles
🔪 Surgical Treatment:
When non-surgical methods no longer provide relief, bunion correction surgery may be necessary. Dr. Chowdhary performs minimally invasive procedures aimed at:
- Realigning bones and tendons
- Correcting joint deformities
- Restoring natural foot shape and function
Recovery time varies, but most patients resume normal activities within 6–8 weeks.
🦶 When Should You See a Specialist?
You should consult a specialist like Dr. Ashwin Chowdhary if:
- The bunion pain interferes with daily activities
- Conservative treatments aren’t working
- You notice increasing toe deformity
- You have difficulty finding comfortable shoes
✅ Conclusion
Bunions are a progressive condition that require proper attention. With expert care from Dr. Ashwin Chowdhary, patients can benefit from accurate diagnosis and customized treatment—whether that’s through lifestyle modification or surgical correction. Don’t wait until walking becomes painful—seek help early and protect your foot health.