New Clinic Location at Farrer Park Medical Centre!

Bunions Don’t Have to Be a Constant Pain: Get Specialized Foot & Ankle Care Today

Trust our experienced foot and ankle specialist, Dr Tang Zhi Hao, to help you heal faster and regain strength with the right treatment plan.

What are Bunions?

A bunion, or hallux valgus, is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe. This condition occurs when the big toe shifts toward the smaller toes, causing the joint to protrude outward. Bunions can be caused by genetic factors, poor footwear choices such as wearing tight or narrow shoes, high heels, or stress on the foot, and if left untreated, they can lead to chronic pain and difficulty walking.

Symptoms of Bunions

Not all bunions require immediate medical attention, but there are clear signs that it’s time to see a specialist. If you’re experiencing any of the following, it’s important to consult with an expert to prevent further complications:
  • Persistent and worsening pain or tenderness around the big toe joint
  • Swelling or redness
  • Difficulty wearing shoes due to the protruding bone
  • Stiffness or decreased range of motion in the toe
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a foot & ankle specialist to avoid further damage and speed up your recovery.

Why See a Foot & Ankle Specialist for Bunions?

Bunions may start as a minor inconvenience but can develop into a serious issue if not addressed early. A foot and ankle specialist has extensive knowledge of the biomechanics of your feet and can offer treatments tailored to your specific needs. This ensures long-term relief and helps prevent complications such as arthritis, ongoing pain, or worsening deformity.

If over-the-counter remedies or changes in footwear aren’t enough to alleviate your symptoms, seeking specialized care is the next step toward lasting comfort.

Our Approach to Bunions

During your consultation, our specialist will evaluate the severity of the bunion through a physical examination and, if necessary, imaging tests such as X-rays. This allows us to understand the extent of the deformity and plan the best treatment.

We offer a range of treatment options depending on the severity of your bunion, from conservative care to surgical intervention. Our goal is to relieve your pain, restore proper alignment, and get you back to pain-free movement.

Not every bunion requires surgery. For some patients, conservative treatments are enough to relieve discomfort and prevent progression. During your consultation, we’ll assess your condition and recommend the best non-surgical options.

  • Footwear Modifications: We can help you find the right shoes that provide comfort and reduce pressure on the affected joint.
  • Custom Orthotics: We can recommend specially designed inserts support your foot’s natural alignment, easing the strain on your bunion and helping prevent further damage.
  • Pain Management: Anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, and bunion pads can help relieve pain and swelling.
If your bunion is severe or conservative treatments haven’t provided enough relief, surgery may be the best option. At Alpha Joints & Orthopaedics, we offer both open and minimally invasive procedures that correct the deformity, alleviate pain, and restore your foot’s function. Types of Bunion Surgery:
  • Open Surgery: This traditional procedure involves removing the bony bump and realigning the joint for a more natural position. 
  • Minimally Invasive Surgery: Through smaller incisions, we can correct the bunion with less scarring and a faster recovery time with various techniques.
Most patients can return to regular activities within weeks. Our team will guide you through the recovery process, ensuring a smooth and successful outcome.

Meet our experienced Foot & Ankle Specialist

Dr Tang Zhi Hao

Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon

Dr Tang Zhi Hao is a fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeon specializing in foot, ankle, and general orthopaedic surgery. His clinical expertise includes hallux valgus (bunion) correction, ankle ligament repair for sprains, and ankle arthroscopy. He also addresses foot deformities such as pes planus (flatfoot) and pes cavus, treats heel pain caused by plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendon disorders, and manages conditions like ankle arthritis, osteochondral lesions, and foot and ankle fractures.

Meet our experienced Foot & Ankle Specialist

Dr Tang Zhi Hao

Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon

Dr Tang Zhi Hao is a fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeon specializing in foot, ankle, and general orthopaedic surgery. His clinical expertise includes hallux valgus (bunion) correction, ankle ligament repair for sprains, and ankle arthroscopy. He also addresses foot deformities such as pes planus (flatfoot) and pes cavus, treats heel pain caused by plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendon disorders, and manages conditions like ankle arthritis, osteochondral lesions, and foot and ankle fractures.

Holistic Care for Foot and Ankle Health

At Alpha Joints & Orthopaedics Clinic, we don’t just treat plantar fasciitis. We provide comprehensive care for all foot and ankle conditions, from sports injuries to chronic pain management. Our holistic approach ensures that we address your needs, not just the injury. Whether you’re recovering from a sprain or dealing with other orthopaedic issues, we’re here to help you maintain optimal foot and ankle health.

List of Other Conditions Treated:

  • Ankle Sprains
  • Bunions
  • Achilles Tendon Disorders
  • Foot and Ankle Fractures

Why Choose Alpha Joints & Orthopaedics?

Personalised treatment for patients
of all ages

Commitment to exceed
patient expectation

Conveniently located in Farrer Park, Gleneagles, Novena and Orchard

Our Partnering Insurers

We are included in the specialist panels of these Insurance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are bunions hereditary, and can I prevent them if they run in my family?

Bunions can be hereditary, especially if you inherit certain foot shapes or structures that are more prone to misalignment. While you cannot change your genetic predisposition, there are steps you can take to minimize your risk of developing bunions. These include wearing properly fitting shoes with a wide toe box, avoiding high heels or pointed-toe shoes, and using custom orthotics to support proper foot alignment. Regular foot exercises and stretching can also help strengthen muscles and prevent joint stress.

Can bunions get worse with time?

Yes, bunions can worsen over time if left untreated. Bunions are a progressive condition, meaning they tend to develop slowly and gradually worsen as the misalignment of the bones in the foot increases. In the early stages, a bunion may cause minimal discomfort, but as the deformity progresses, the bump on the side of the foot can become larger and more pronounced. This can lead to increased pain, difficulty wearing shoes, and even altered walking patterns.

How long is the recovery time after bunion surgery, and when can I walk again?

Recovery time after bunion surgery varies depending on the procedure performed and the severity of the bunion. In most cases, patients can walk with limited weight-bearing on the foot within a few days to a week, using protective footwear or crutches. Full recovery can take anywhere from six weeks to several months. Your surgeon will provide specific guidelines for when you can resume walking and other activities, as well as physical therapy recommendations to help regain mobility and strength.

Will a bunion come back after surgery?

While bunion surgery is generally successful in correcting the deformity, there is a small chance that a bunion may recur, particularly if the underlying causes (such as improper footwear or foot mechanics) are not addressed. Factors such as genetics, continued use of ill-fitting shoes, and biomechanical issues can increase the likelihood of recurrence. Post-surgery, it’s important to follow your doctor’s advice on footwear, foot care, and orthotics to reduce the risk of the bunion returning.