Juvenile Bunions
What is a Juvenile Bunion?
While bunions are often seen in adult feet, they can present in children at an early age too. Bunions describe a prominent bony bulge on the inside of the foot by the big toe. In this condition, the big toe has changed alignment to start moving towards the second toe, pushing the joint at the ball of the foot (called the metatarsophalangeal joint) outwards, making it more prominent.
As bunions tend to progressively worsen over time, a bunion in childhood can be a large cause of concern for parents. If you’ve noticed a bunion starting to form on your child’s feet, bring them in for an assessment with our experienced podiatry team at Leading Health Podiatry.
Why Does My Child Have a Bunion?
In kids, there are two primary causes of bunions:
👞 Wearing Ill-Fitting Shoes
Tight, narrow, or poorly fitting footwear can push the big toe towards the lesser toes.
Kids grow fast, and a recent study showed that 65% of children may be wearing the wrong-sized shoes.
Wearing improper shoes daily can lead to changes in joint alignment.
🧬 Hereditary Predisposition
Genetics can dictate foot posture and gait characteristics.
Flat feet that roll onto the side of the big toe can lead to bunions.
Repeated pressure can cause joint instability and misalignment over time.
Symptoms of Juvenile Bunions
🔴 Bony prominence at the big toe joint
😣 Pain when walking or bending the toe
🔥 Redness & swelling around the joint
👞 Difficulty fitting shoes due to rubbing or pressure
⚠️ Toe misalignment (overlapping or underlapping)
Treatment Options
✅ Footwear
Choose shoes with a wide toe box to prevent worsening the bunion.
Ensure shoes do not push against the bunion or cause rubbing.
🔹 Orthotics
Custom orthotics can help correct foot posture and redistribute pressure.
Supports the arch and reduces excessive rolling inwards (pronation).
🏋️ Physical Therapy & Splinting
Exercises, joint mobilisation, and splints can help encourage proper toe alignment.
Your podiatrist will recommend the best techniques based on your child’s needs.
⚖️ Surgical Referral
While most juvenile bunions can be managed conservatively, severe cases may require surgical intervention.
If necessary, we will refer your child to an orthopaedic specialist.
Book an Assessment at Leading Health Podiatry
If you’re concerned about a bunion developing in your child’s foot, early intervention is key. Our expert podiatrists at Leading Health Podiatry are here to help! Book an appointment today to ensure the best care for your child’s foot health.