How Do Bunions Happen, and Can I Prevent Them from Developing?

Bunions are bony bumps that form on the joint at the base of your big toe. They develop gradually over time and can cause significant discomfort and pain. Understanding how bunions form and taking steps to prevent them can help you maintain healthy feet and avoid unnecessary suffering.

When left untreated, bunions can change the shape of your foot and cause walking problems. The experienced team at Washington Foot & Ankle Sports Medicine in Kirkland, Washington, offers noninvasive and surgical treatment options to resolve bunions.

What causes bunions?

Bunions occur when some of the bones in your foot relocate and become misaligned. The misalignment causes the tip of your big toe to start moving closer to your smaller toes and forcing the joint of your big toe to stick out in the opposite direction.

Several factors can contribute to the development of bunions:

Genetics

Inherited foot shapes and structures, such as flat feet or low arches, can increase your risk of developing bunions. If your parents or grandparents had bunions, you are also more likely to develop them. 

Footwear choices

Wearing tight, narrow, or high-heeled shoes can contribute to bunion formation. These types of shoes force your toes into an unnatural position, putting extra pressure on the joint at the base of your big toe.

Foot injuries

Previous injuries to your foot or toe can lead to bunions. Even if an injury occurred years ago, it might affect your foot structure and lead to problems later in life.

Medical conditions

Certain medical conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis or neuromuscular disorders, can make you more susceptible to developing bunions.

How to recognize the symptoms of bunions

Recognizing the symptoms of bunions early can help you take action to prevent them from worsening. Common symptoms include:

• A visible bump on the outside of the base of your big toe
• Swelling, redness, or soreness around the joint
• Persistent or intermittent pain in the affected area
• Restricted movement of your big toe
• Calluses or corns where the first and second toes overlap

If you notice any of these symptoms, it's essential to consult Washington Foot and Ankle Sports Medicine for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

How to prevent bunions 

While you can’t do anything about your genetic predisposition, you can take several steps to prevent bunions from developing or worsening.

Wear appropriate footwear

Choose shoes with a lot of room for your toes. Avoid high heels and other shoes with narrow or pointed toes, as they can force your feet into an unnatural position, contributing to the development of bunions. Shoes with good arch support can also help maintain proper foot alignment and reduce your risk for bunions.

Practice proper foot care

Taking care of your feet can help prevent bunions and other foot problems. Stretch and strengthen your feet and toes with exercises to improve flexibility and muscle balance. Keeping your feet clean and moisturized can also help prevent calluses and other skin issues that can intensify bunion pain.

Use orthotic devices

Custom orthotic devices, such as shoe inserts or toe spacers, can help correct foot misalignment and reduce pressure on the big toe joint. These devices can be especially beneficial if you have flat feet or other structural issues contributing to bunion formation.

Maintain a healthy weight

Having excess weight puts additional pressure on your feet and increases the risk of developing bunions. Eat a balanced diet and exercise regularly to reach and maintain a healthy weight, which will help reduce pressure and promote overall foot health.

Call us if you suspect you have a bunion

Imagine walking, running, or dancing without constantly wincing in pain. It's achievable as long as you know how bunions develop and take steps to stop them. Slam the brakes on bunion pain by slipping into shoes that fit like a glove, add supports to take the pressure off, and maintain a healthy weight. 

If you suspect you have a bunion, call the office or schedule an appointment online for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.