A bunion often appears when the big toe leans inward. Protrusion of the joint at the base of the toe becomes much more noticeable when a bunion develops. Bunions can be painful, and because the condition can cause nerve damage in the toe, numbness may result. There may also be a higher risk for osteoarthritis when bunions appear. When the toe joint is misaligned, your risk of falling increases because the ability to maintain your balance may decrease.
What Causes Bunions?
Though bunions can be an inherited condition, wearing tight shoes is known to cause them and exacerbate the problem. Wearing high-heeled shoes with narrow tips is also associated with bunion formation. Though ill-fitting shoes can contribute to the development of bunions, even people who wear shoes that are comfortable and not too narrow get bunions. Other conditions that increase the risk for bunions include splayfoot, flatfoot deformity, poor connective tissue, joint disease, short muscles in the calves, and a short calcaneal tendon. Men are not as inclined to get bunions as women are.
How Can Bunions Be Prevented?
You can help prevent bunions by wearing flat shoes that feel comfortable. These shoes should offer plenty of toe room. Walk without shoes so your toes are in a natural position and the muscles in your feet can get stronger.
If you have Bunions in Hyde Park, find Mitchell Foot & Ankle at www.hydeparkfootdoctor.com or call Dr. Mitchell’s office to schedule an appointment and have your Bunions in Hyde Park treated.
