<<< back to article list

Non-invasive Treatment for Hallux Valgus: aka Bunions


Blog by Vancouver Orthotics, Hycroft Medical Building (114-3195 Granville St @ 16th Ave) | November 24th, 2019


Hallux Valgus is a progressive foot deformity in which the first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint is affected and is often accompanied by significant functional disability and foot pain. A bunion is a painful bursal enlargement and bone growth that may protrude from the joint of your big toe. Dr. Michael Horowitz is a prominent doctor of chiropractic in the Vancouver area, who has studied and assists in the diagnoses and treatment of hallux valgus and bunions. He owns Vancouver Orthotics, in the heart of Vancouver, BC, Canada. Practicing since 2000, he is familiar with the biomechanics of the feet. Biomechanics is the analysis of the movement and structure of the human body. Let's explore what bunions are all about and how custom orthotics inserts can provide a non-surgical alternative to treatment.

What is Hallux Valgus & Bunions

Bunions are often experienced as pain and a round bump that consists of bone and thickened tissue on the side of your distal big toe joint. This may cause displacement and mis-positioning the bones in your foot, creating more pain and biomechanics stress. This may cause your big toe to point outward, pushing on the adjacent 2nd and 3rd toe. It develops around the joint and can become fairly large in size. Smaller bunions on the outer foot are called bunionette's, may develop on and around the 5th “baby” toe.

Causes of Bunions

Bunions or bunionettes can develop for a multitude of reasons. Since the feet and hands are hereditary aspects of the human body, bunions can pass down through first-party genetics. This means if a person has bunions, their children may develop them as well. It was first-thought that bunions were only hereditary, but that is not the case.

Some medical conditions can promote the development of the bunion.. These include arthritis, a foot injury, or a neuromuscular condition. Problems with the tone of your muscles, lax ligaments, joint issue, or flat feet (overpronation) can trigger the development of bunions.

Additionally, improper fitting shoes can add to the risk. High heels and/or a narrow forefoot of your footwear may be aggravating factors. Certain types of physical activity may also trigger pain such as running, court sports, dancing and jumping/pivoting activities. Your overall foot shape and mis-alignment may lead to bunions. Dr. Horowitz can diagnose this problem and may have some insight into what may be the cause.

Symptoms of Hallux Valgus

The most common symptom of your bunion is a painful irritation with or without a red swollen bump. The pain could be mild discomfort or severe agony. You may see red blotches, discoloured skin or a bruise around your big toe joint. Corns or calluses may pop-up around the area where the toes are rubbing together. When you wear shoes or socks, the pain may be more intense. Your shoe may not fit as well as it did before the bunion began appearing. 

Bunions, hallux valgus, Vanouver Orthotics, 604-737-3668Custom Orthotic Inserts can help

The difference between custom orthotic inserts and store-bought insoles is rather simple. Store brands are for generic foot types and provide cushioning. While custom orthotic inserts fit your foot perfectly and provide a therapeutic response. They care custom made to your feet and thus provide the specific benefits that your feet require. For a specific condition, such as a bunion, custom orthotics are what would be the ideal choice. Dr. Horowitz uses 3D scanning techniques to obtain your foot's dynamics to a tee. Additionally, he provides further analysis, using an electronic gait scan, having you walk on this gait plate, it records specific information about the timing and pressures of your feet that can be helpful in your diagnosis and treatment plan.

A custom orthotic insert can relieve and redistribute pressure from the bunion. It can protect the area from rubbing on your socks or shoes. This method alleviates pain and discomfort by stabilizing the foot. The insoles can also help realign your toes to minimize additional calluses from rubbing. If left untreated, bunions can grow, develop in size and become a bigger issue. The custom orthotic inserts can help prevent that from happening.

bunions, hallux valgus, Dr. Michael Horowitz, Vancouver OrthoticsDr. Horowitz provides consultation, examination and an extensive foot analysis to get to the root of your foot issue. During your initial consultation, you will learn your options and his experience will guide you. His number one priority is to help you live a healthier pain-free life. Foot pain can be a mild annoyance or debilitating. You don't have to give up the activities you love. Custom orthotic Inserts can greatly improve your overall health. With reasonable prices, you have nothing to lose and only your freedom to gain.

Dr. Michael Horowitz's Vancouver Orthotics office always welcomes new patients. Every custom insert has a warranty on structure and modifications. His integrity is top-notch as your satisfaction is our top priority. The staff at Dr. Horowitz's office are friendly and ready to assist you in answering your questions.

Bunion, hallux valgus, Hycroft Medical Building, Vancouver OrthoticsVancouver Orthotics is in Vancouver, BC, in the Hycroft medical building at 114-3195 Granville St, Questions? Email Dr. Horowitz at, info@vancouverorthotics.ca. Stop by Dr. Horowitz's website for more information, https://www.vancouverorthotics.ca/. Call, 604-737-3668, to make an appointment, or book your appointment online at https://vancouverorthotics.janeapp.com/. Become pain-free and enjoy life again with Vancouver custom orthotic inserts!