Bunion Surgery

Bunion Surgery

At Ace Physio Sports, our team of specialist musculoskeletal physiotherapists are experts in post-surgical rehabilitation. We provide a comprehensive, holistic treatment programme tailored to your individual needs, helping to reduce pain and maximise functional recovery.

What is a Bunion?

A bunion (medically known as hallux valgus) is a deformity that develops at the base of the big toe, where it meets the foot. This condition often causes pain and swelling around the joint, which can worsen during walking or standing for long periods. The misalignment may also make it difficult to find comfortable, well-fitting footwear. Bunions are more common in women than in men, with poorly fitting shoes—especially narrow or high-heeled styles—being a major contributing factor. However, genetic predisposition can also play a significant role in the development of bunions.

How does a bunion form?

Normally, the big toe sits in a straight, natural position. However, over time, the toe may begin to angle inward toward the middle of the foot and the other toes. This gradual shift causes the bones of the big toe and foot to deviate outward toward the edge of the foot. As a result, abnormal pressure and friction lead to bony growth and inflammation around the joint. If left untreated, these changes progress and eventually form the deformity known as a bunion.

Joints and bones involved

During your consultations, you may come across medical terms that describe the specific joints and bones affected by bunions. The joint where your big toe meets your foot is called the first metatarsophalangeal joint (first MTP joint). This joint is formed by two bones — the first metatarsal, located in the forefoot, and the first proximal phalanx, which is the first bone of the big toe.

Who requires bunion surgery?

Bunion surgery may be recommended when symptoms become severe and do not improve with non-surgical treatments. There are several surgical options available, and the choice of procedure depends on factors such as the severity of the deformity, associated symptoms, age, and any other existing medical conditions.

As previously mentioned, poorly fitting shoes and genetic factors can increase the likelihood of developing bunions. In addition, certain medical conditions can make bunions more likely to form, including:

  • Arthritis – especially inflammatory types such as rheumatoid arthritis, which can affect joint alignment.
  • Flat feet (pes planus) – low arches can place extra pressure on the big toe joint.
  • Neuromuscular conditions – conditions affecting muscle balance in the foot may contribute to bunion development.
  • Foot injuries – previous fractures or trauma to the foot can alter bone alignment and increase bunion risk.
  • Connective tissue disorders – conditions that affect ligaments and joint stability can predispose to bunions.

How can physiotherapy help after bunion surgery?

Following any surgery, physiotherapy focuses on restoring normal physical function. This is achieved through a variety of therapeutic treatments, including pain management, manual therapy, exercise therapy, electrotherapy, and hydrotherapy. The goal is to help patients return to their functional level prior to surgery. For some, this recovery can be relatively straightforward, while for others it may be a longer process requiring dedication and effort.

Pain Management

Pain can be a significant concern following any surgery. At Ace Physio Sports, our specialist physiotherapists have extensive experience in managing post-surgical pain and are fully equipped to help. We offer a range of treatments specifically designed to target and reduce pain effectively. Below are some of the main physiotherapy options for pain management:

  • Manual therapy – hands-on techniques to mobilise joints, reduce stiffness, and relieve pain.
  • Electrotherapy – use of electrical modalities such as TENS to reduce pain and inflammation.
  • Cryotherapy and heat therapy – targeted cold or heat applications to manage swelling and discomfort.
  • Exercise therapy – guided movements to restore strength, flexibility, and joint function while reducing pain.
  • Hydrotherapy – water-based exercises that minimise stress on the foot while promoting recovery.
  • Education and self-management strategies – advice on posture, footwear, and activity modification to prevent pain flare-ups.

Manual Therapies

Manual therapies are a hands-on approach to physiotherapy designed to achieve a variety of therapeutic benefits. They can help accelerate the healing process, reduce pain, optimise scar tissue formation, and promote relaxation. Below is a list of the manual therapies offered at Ace Physio Sports:

  • Soft tissue mobilisation – techniques to release tension, improve tissue flexibility, and reduce pain.
  • Joint mobilisations – gentle movements to restore joint range of motion and alignment.
  • Myofascial release – targeted pressure and stretching to relax tight fascia and improve circulation.
  • Scar tissue mobilisation – techniques to optimise healing and prevent stiffness around surgical scars.
  • Massage therapy – to promote relaxation, reduce swelling, and enhance blood flow.

Exercise Therapy

Exercise therapy is a key component of the rehabilitation process, aimed at improving strength, flexibility, and overall function. Your physiotherapist at Ace Physio Sports will work closely with you to design a personalised exercise programme that targets the muscles of your foot and leg, while also considering core and postural muscles to support proper alignment. Below is a list of some of the types of exercise therapy we offer:

  • Range of motion exercises – gentle movements to restore flexibility and prevent stiffness in the big toe and foot.
  • Strengthening exercises – targeted exercises to improve the strength of foot, ankle, and lower leg muscles.
  • Balance and proprioception training – activities to enhance stability and prevent future injuries.
  • Stretching exercises – techniques to maintain or improve flexibility in the toes, foot, and calf muscles.
  • Functional exercises – tasks that simulate everyday activities to help return to normal walking, running, or sports.

Electrotherapy

Electrotherapy uses various types of energy waves to achieve therapeutic effects. It can help relieve pain, accelerate tissue repair, and reduce swelling, among other benefits. There are several electrotherapy modalities available, and your physiotherapist at Ace Physio Sports will select the most appropriate treatment for your individual needs. Below is a list of some of the electrotherapy modalities offered at Ace Physio Sports:

  • TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) – for pain relief by stimulating nerves and reducing pain signals.
  • Ultrasound therapy – uses sound waves to promote tissue healing, reduce inflammation, and improve blood flow.
  • Interferential therapy – electrical currents to relieve pain, reduce swelling, and improve circulation.
  • Laser therapy – low-level lasers to accelerate tissue repair and reduce pain and inflammation.
  • Electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) – stimulates muscles to improve strength, prevent atrophy, and enhance recovery.

Hydrotherapy

Hydrotherapy harnesses the therapeutic properties of water to support rehabilitation. In the pool, your physiotherapist at Ace Physio Sports will use the natural buoyancy of water to reduce stress on your joints and muscles, allowing you to perform exercises that may be difficult on dry land. Hydrotherapy can play a significant role in post-operative recovery, helping to improve strength, mobility, and confidence in movement.

Bookings

To book an appointment with one of our specialist physiotherapists or to find out more about how Ace Physio Sports can help you, please contact us today at +65 81535374 or visit acephysiosports.com

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