What is the Cause of a Bunion?

Bunions are one of the most common medical ailments experienced by people of all ages, all around the world. Research shows that roughly 1 in 3 people will experience a bunion at some point in their lives. Although bunions are a fairly common occurrence, they are extremely painful and can prevent people from doing daily activities such as walking, driving, and even wearing normal shoes.  

What is a Bunion?

A bunion is a bony lump that can form on one side of the big toe. The bump forms as the result of excessive pressure that is placed on the foot, causing the big toe to lean toward your second toe instead of being straight, producing a bump. 

What is the Cause of a Bunion?

While bunions can be caused by a variety of factors, the most common include:

• Improper Footwear

One of the leading causes of bunions is wearing shoes that are too small or too tight. When there is not enough room in a shoe for all of your toes to sit comfortably, your toes are pressed together, placing too much pressure on your big toe. Additionally, shoes like high heels can place additional pressure on the toes, making this issue worse and increasing the risk of developing bunions.

• Genetics

While medical experts report that bunions are not a genetic condition, one of the leading causes of bunions is the natural shape of your foot. If you have naturally flat feet or abnormal bone structures in your foot, you are likely to have a higher risk of developing medical issues such as bunions. 

• Pre-Existing Joint Conditions

Medical conditions such as arthritis can weaken your joints, putting you at a greater risk of developing bunions. 

How Can Bunions Be Avoided?

• Wear Proper Footwear

One of the easiest ways to avoid bunions is by ensuring that you wear comfortable, well-fitting shoes, especially when you plan to walk a lot or be on your feet for extended periods of time. Wearing shoes that fit properly and allow plenty of room for your feet and toes to breathe, as well as opting for shoes that are comfortable and do not place an uneven amount of pressure on any part of your feet, is the key to avoiding any medical complications with your feet. 

• Stretch

If the natural shape of your foot or any pre-existing medical conditions puts you at a higher risk for developing bunions, try to help pressure distribution and avoid discomfort by stretching your feet, toes, and legs every day, or at least before and after wearing an uncomfortable pair of shoes or spending a lot of time on your feet. Stretching your feet and legs can also reduce other health complications and ease muscle pain as a result of strenuous activities, improper footwear, and other factors that can cause discomfort. 

Contact Northwest Surgery Center

At Northwest Surgery Center, our expert team has years of experience in the treatment of bunions. Our minimally invasive surgery allows you to return to your daily routine almost immediately, free of pain, no matter what the cause of a bunion was. Contact us today for more information!