A bunion is a bony lump that forms when the hallux (big toe) pushes against the second toe. As the swelling enlarges, the bunion can be painful and cause balance issues. While heredity is primarily to blame for bunions, other factors also contribute to the development of these painful lumps.
Read on to learn some common causes of bunions.
Genetics
If bunions run in your family, you are genetically predisposed to develop bunions. So, if your parents have these small bumps on their feet, you are likely to get them, too. In fact, a study revealed that 83% of people with bunions have a family member (blood-related) with the same issue.
Nevertheless, genetic predisposition does not always mean you will get bunions. These deformities are ten times more in women than men, mainly due to ill-fitting footwear such as high heels.
Also, children with Down syndrome and cerebral palsy can develop juvenile bunions. Some signs of juvenile bunions are:
You should treat these bunions right away before they grow bigger and require surgical intervention.
Foot Structure
Your foot's structure and toe joints support help the foot function properly. However, your bunion risk increases if you have an abnormal foot structure, such as flat feet or low arches. You can wear appropriate shoes if you have a low arch or no arch to keep bunions at bay.
People with loose tendons and joints can extend their feet easily beyond what a normal foot can do. If you have loose joints and tendons, wear proper fitting shoes that provide adequate feet support. This tactic prevents bunion development as you walk.
If you have balance problems or you frequently trip, you might have weak foot muscles, which exposes you to the risk of developing bunions. With routine foot exercises, you will evade bunions and some foot injuries.
Health Conditions
These inflammatory conditions like arthritis cause a lot of pain and stress in the joints. As a result, bones deform and cause bunions. Examples of arthritis of the feet that contribute to bunions development are gout, psoriatic and rheumatoid arthritis.
Some neuromuscular conditions that increase your chances of getting bunions are:
Your podiatry expert can recommend conservative bunion treatments like pain-relief medication, roomier shoes, heat, and ice therapy or wear bunion pads that lower bunion pains. If, however, the treatment yields no result, they could suggest more advanced solutions to help ease your discomfort. Contact a local NDIS podiatry provider to learn more.
Share