What That Bump on Your Big Toe Really Means
You may have noticed a bony bump forming on the side of your big toe. Known as a bunion, or hallux valgus, this condition often signals a structural imbalance in your foot. Although it may initially appear harmless, a bunion can gradually impact your foot’s natural movement and add strain to nearby areas. Over time, inflammation from this misalignment can lead to persistent pain, making daily activities like walking or even standing feel challenging.
What are the Common Causes of Bunion?
Bunions and bunionettes form gradually due to ongoing pressure on the toe joints. A bunion develops when the big toe leans toward the second toe, creating a bump near the big toe joint. A bunionette develops in a similar way at the base of the little toe, along the outer side of the foot.
- Foot Shape: Certain inherited foot structures can increase bunion risk.
- Poorly Fitting Shoes: Tight, narrow, or high-heeled shoes contribute to pressure and deformity.
- Genetics: Family history plays a significant role in predisposition.
- Medical Conditions: Arthritis and other health issues can affect joint integrity.
- Physical Activities: Repetitive stress or certain sports may exacerbate symptoms.
What is an Ingrown Toenail?
A bunion is a bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of the big toe when the toe pushes against the one next to it, causing the joint to jut outward. This misalignment often leads to swelling, redness, and pain, especially in tight shoes.
Effective Bunion Care at East Coast Podiatry
Personalised Treatment Plans for Lasting Relief
At East Coast Podiatry, we provide tailored care plans designed to reduce bunion pain, improve foot function, and prevent further progression. Our evidence-based treatments focus on your individual needs, helping you regain comfort and confidence in every step.
Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT)
A non-invasive treatment that uses acoustic waves to stimulate natural healing, reduce inflammation, and ease pain around the bunion area.
Custom Foot Orthotics
Bespoke orthotic devices that support proper foot alignment, redistribute pressure away from the bunion, and enhance walking comfort.
Recognising Bunion Signs
Bunions can cause a range of symptoms that affect your comfort and mobility. Recognising these signs early is important for effective management and preventing further discomfort. Here are some of the most frequent symptoms to watch out for.
Common signs include:
- Visible bony bump at the base of the big toe (1st MTP joint).
- Stiffness or discomfort in the big toe joint.
- Aching or throbbing pain, especially during movement or bending of the toe.
- Swelling and redness, inflammation.
- Corns or calluses from friction caused by tight footwear.
- Possible development of hammer toes in other toes.
What Sets Us Apart
A Perfect Blend of Expertise, Care, and Clinical Precision
Specialised Support by Experienced Podiatrists
Our internationally trained and accredited podiatrists bring years of clinical experience in managing a wide range of foot and lower limb concerns.
Personalised and Evidence-Based Care Plans
Modern, Well-Equipped Clinic Environment
Holistic Approach to Foot & Lower Limb Wellness
Support for All Ages and Lifestyles
Ongoing Guidance and Education
No Downtime
5-Year Warranty for Orthotic Devices
Tailored Support to Improve Your Foot Health
At East Coast Podiatry, we provide a thorough and personalised approach to managing bunions, aimed at relieving pain and improving foot function. Our step-by-step care ensures treatment is safe, effective, and designed around your individual needs.
Initial Examination and Assessment
We begin with a comprehensive evaluation to understand your symptoms and determine the underlying cause of your bunion. This helps us develop a precise and appropriate treatment plan.
Personalised Care Plan
Our podiatrists create a care plan tailored to your specific condition and goals, focusing on reducing pain and improving mobility.
Custom Orthotics (Prescriptive)
We provide custom-made orthotic devices designed to support your foot structure, helping to reduce strain and correct alignment safely.
Education and Prevention
We offer advice on selecting suitable footwear, performing exercises, and adopting healthy habits to manage symptoms and reduce the chance of bunion recurrence.
Follow-Up Care
Regular follow-up visits allow us to monitor your progress, adjust treatments if necessary, and ensure your foot health is maintained over time.
Meet the Podiatrist Team
Experienced & Internationally Trained Podiatrists Ready To Serve
Michael Lai, D.P.M
Georgina Tay
Ari Tria Dzulkifle
Maria Salus
Peggy Tian
Jordan Williams
What Our Patients Say
Read Why They Recommend Us
2 reviews . 1 photos
2 weeks ago
NewGreat experience at East Coast Podiatry (Orchard)! Had a persistent nail fungus issue over the last couple of years and it was solved so quickly and efficiently with the team. My podiatrist - Ms Peggy explained and assessed my condition in great detail, and recommended me the follow up actions required to get the issue all treated. Was an overall superb and pleasant treatment experience 🙂
6 reviews . 5 photos
We have been with Gerorgina for my daughter in-toes and flat foot issue. Gone through a thorough treatment, exercises, feet braces and we can see massive improvement in my daughter's posture and feet.
Georgina and the staff have been very helpful and making every visit smooth and pleasant. Keep up the good work!
5 reviews . 2 photos
a month ago
Our 6-year-old son had very severe in-toeing when we first visited Dr. Michael in October 2024. We’re incredibly thankful for his expertise—after just 8 months of treatment, our son is now very close to having an ideal foot structure.
What we appreciated most was the all-in-one pricing—it covered everything from braces to follow-ups, making the treatment both convenient and great value for money. The clinic’s location in Orchard is also a big plus for accessibility. Highly recommend Dr. Michael, especially for concerned parents dealing with pediatric foot issues!
.webp?width=1418&height=1890&name=review%20(1).webp)
2 reviews . 1 photos
a month ago
Had in-grown toenails that has been troubling me for years. Got it fixed in less than 30 mins and 100% would recommend for people suffering the same.
The professionalism and care by Ari and the rest of the team are top notch and attention to care throughout the whole recovery process as well.
6 reviews . 2 photos
a weeks ago
NewStaff were extremely polite and helpful. Podiatrist Jordan Williams made me felt at ease and comfortable. He explained every test and provided useful advice to correct my issues. Strongly recommend for post marathon foot issues.
6 reviews . 5 photos
2 month ago
Thank Ms Peggy, my podiatrist for helping me cure my plantar fasciitis. I felt so much relieved after shockwaves therapy sessions with you. And the exercises you taught me really helped alot. Thank you Ms. Vivay for the friendly customer service everytime I visited your place. And appreciate Mr Syah's help to fit in the Customized soles for me. It's a awesome experience to be guided by all of you. Thank you so much 😊
Yours can be the next story to share. Click here to learn how.
Our Clinic Locations
Easily Accessible Care, Wherever You Are
We recommend scheduling an appointment before visiting our clinics.
Orchard
Kembangan
Novena
Bukit Timah
Marine Parade
Orchard Clinic
302 Orchard Road, Tong Building #09-02 (Rolex Centre), Singapore 238862
Kembangan Clinic
18 Jalan Masjid, Kembangan Plaza #B1-02, Singapore 418944
Novena Clinic
10 Sinaran Drive, Novena Medical Center #08-13, Singapore 307506
Bukit Timah Clinic
1 Fifth Avenue, Guthrie House #02-04, Singapore 268802
Marine Parade Clinic
80 Marine Parade Rd, #08-04 Parkway Parade, Singapore 449269
