Bunions: A review of management

Bunions are a common complaint, particularly among older female patients. They are characterised by progressive deformity at the metatarsophalangeal joint, resulting in a painful dorsomedial prominence. This may cause difficulties with shoe wear and contribute to falls in the elderly.

The aim of this article is to discuss the aetiology, non-operative and operative management of bunions, as well as indications for referral.

Initial treatment of symptomatic bunions should be non-operative. Accommodative footwear is important. There is evidence supporting the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, orthotics, splints/braces and toe spacers. However, these may not provide long-term relief, and referral to an orthopaedic surgeon is recommended if the patient has a painful prominence, has exhausted non-operative treatment and is a suitable operative candidate. Cosmesis alone is not an indication for operative management. Smoking is a relative contraindication to surgery, and cessation is recommended. In paediatric or adolescent patients (juvenile bunion), surgery should be delayed until skeletal maturity.