Hallux Valgus Repair

What is Bunion Fusion Surgery (Hallux Valgus Arthrodesis)?

Bunion fusion surgery, medically known as arthrodesis, is a procedure used to treat severe hallux valgus (bunion deformity).

A bunion occurs when the big toe joint becomes misaligned, causing the big toe to angle toward the other toes. This leads to a visible bump on the side of the foot, pain, and difficulty wearing shoes.

Fusion surgery is typically recommended when:

• The bunion is severe
• Previous bunion surgery has failed
• Arthritis has developed in the joint
• Pain significantly affects walking or daily activities

During the procedure:

• The surgeon realigns the big toe joint
• The joint surfaces are removed
• The bones are fixed together using screws or wires

This permanently eliminates movement in the joint, providing stability and long-term pain relief.

How Does Hallux Valgus (Bunion) Develop?

Bunions develop gradually when the big toe joint becomes misaligned over time.

Common contributing factors include:

• Genetic foot structure
• Tight or narrow footwear
• Flat feet or abnormal foot mechanics
• Arthritis affecting the joint
• Previous foot injuries

As the deformity worsens, the joint may become stiff and painful, making walking difficult.

What Are the Symptoms of Severe Bunions?

Symptoms of hallux valgus may worsen as the condition progresses.

Common symptoms include:

• Pain in the big toe joint
• A visible bump on the side of the foot
• Swelling and redness around the joint
• Difficulty wearing certain shoes
• Limited movement of the big toe
• Pain while walking or standing
• Overlapping of the toes in severe cases

When conservative treatment no longer helps, surgery may be recommended.

What Should I Do If I Have Severe Bunion Pain?

If bunion pain is affecting your daily activities, it is important to seek medical advice.

A healthcare professional may recommend:

• Physiotherapy
• Footwear modifications
• Orthotics or insoles
• Anti-inflammatory medication

If symptoms persist or worsen, bunion fusion surgery may be considered.

Physiotherapy Treatment After Bunion Fusion Surgery

Physiotherapy plays a key role in recovery after bunion fusion surgery.

At ACE Physio Sports in Singapore, physiotherapists design personalised rehabilitation programmes to help patients regain mobility and confidence in walking.

0–6 Weeks After Surgery

During the early stage of recovery, the foot must be protected while the bones fuse.

Patients usually wear a surgical boot for around six weeks.

Physiotherapy during this stage focuses on:

• Reducing swelling with elevation and ice therapy
• Maintaining strength in unaffected joints
• Gentle exercises for ankle and lower limb mobility
• Preserving overall fitness during recovery

6–12 Weeks After Surgery

Once the surgical boot is removed, physiotherapy focuses on restoring a normal walking pattern.

Treatment may include:

• Gait retraining to improve walking mechanics
• Balance and coordination exercises
• Functional training for everyday activities
• Stair climbing practice
• Progressive strengthening exercises

Because the big toe joint is fused, patients must adapt their walking pattern.

12 Weeks and Beyond

Later rehabilitation focuses on returning to normal lifestyle and recreational activities.

Physiotherapy may include:

• Strengthening exercises for foot and ankle muscles
• Balance and stability training
• Endurance exercises such as walking programmes
• Gradual return to recreational activities

Most patients return to full activity within 3–6 months.

What Should I Avoid After Bunion Fusion Surgery?

During recovery, it is important to protect the fused joint.

Avoid:

• Walking without the surgical boot too early
• High-impact activities during early recovery
• Tight footwear that pressures the big toe
• Returning to sports too quickly

Following physiotherapy guidance helps ensure successful healing.

Can There Be Long-Term Effects?

Fusion surgery permanently removes movement in the big toe joint.

However, most patients experience significant improvements including:

• Relief from chronic bunion pain
• Improved stability of the foot
• Better walking comfort
• Reduced risk of bunion recurrence

Physiotherapy helps patients adapt to the fused joint and restore normal function.

Why Choose ACE Physio Sports

At ACE Physio Sports – Singapore, our physiotherapists specialise in foot and ankle rehabilitation, sports injuries, and post-surgical physiotherapy.

Our clinic provides:

• Personalised rehabilitation programmes
• Evidence-based physiotherapy treatments
• Structured recovery plans after foot surgery
• Support for safe return to daily activities

Conveniently located near East Coast Road, we support patients from Marine Parade, Katong, Joo Chiat, Siglap, and Bedok.

Book an Appointment

To arrange an appointment, please call +65 81535374 or visit acephysiosport.com.