Orthopaedics, by video or in person
Bunions
The signs, the danger signs that mean hospital now, and how to see a doctor by video from anywhere in Nigeria.
Signs to look for
Bunions
- A bony bump on the side of the foot at the base of the big toe
- Pain, redness or swelling over the bump, worse in shoes
- The big toe pointing towards the other toes
- Hard skin or corns where the toes rub
- The second toe pushed up or bent
A bunion (hallux valgus) is a bony bump on the side of the foot at the base of the big toe, where the toe has drifted towards the other toes. It runs in families and is more common in women. Narrow, pointed and high-heeled shoes do not usually start a bunion but make it hurt and can speed it up. Many bunions stay comfortable in wide shoes. Surgery straightens the toe when pain stops you walking or working, and it is not done for looks alone.
Medically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Symptoms
- A bony bump on the side of the foot at the base of the big toe
- Pain, redness or swelling over the bump, worse in shoes
- The big toe pointing towards the other toes
- Hard skin or corns where the toes rub
- The second toe pushed up or bent
- Stiffness or pain in the big toe joint
When to See a Doctor
Go to a hospital the same day if you have diabetes and the skin over a bunion breaks, turns red, swells or discharges, because foot infections in diabetes spread quickly. See a doctor promptly for a hot, swollen, very painful big toe joint, which can be gout or an infection. See an orthopaedic surgeon if a bunion stays painful despite wider shoes, or if it is pushing the other toes out of shape.
Treatment options
- Wide, soft, flat shoes with room for the toes
- Bunion pads and toe spacers to stop rubbing
- Insoles made for your foot, from a podiatrist
- Pain relief for flares
- Standing X-rays to measure the deformity before any surgery
- Bunion surgery that cuts and realigns the bone, held with small screws
Common Questions
Can a bunion go away without surgery?
No. The shape of the foot does not reverse with splints or exercises, but shoes, pads and insoles often keep it comfortable. Surgery is the only way to straighten the toe.
Do bunion correctors work?
Night splints and toe spacers can ease rubbing and pain for some people, but they do not correct the bone.
How long is recovery after bunion surgery?
You walk on the heel in a special shoe from the first day, are back in wide shoes after about six to twelve weeks, and the swelling settles over several months.
Need Help?
A bone and joint surgeon on a video call, who goes through your scans and says whether physiotherapy, an injection or surgery is right.
See an orthopaedic surgeon by videoIf any of the danger signs on this page applies, go to the nearest hospital now instead.
Find a verified orthopaedics specialist near you.
Orthopaedics in Lagos →Orthopaedics in Abuja →Orthopaedics in Port Harcourt →Orthopaedics in Jos →Orthopaedics in Ibadan →Sources and further reading
The guidelines and patient information this page is checked against. Care in Nigeria follows the same evidence; what differs is the price and where it is done.
- Bunions. NHS. Patient information.
Links last checked 3 November 2026.
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.