When it comes to bunions, there are a lot of misconceptions out there. But we’re here to clear things up and provide you with practical knowledge for treating bunions! Keep reading to learn more.
What Is a Bunion?
To put it simply, a bunion occurs when the first metatarsal bone of the foot turns outward and the big toe turns inward, resulting in a large bump. Contrary to popular belief, bunions don’t just spring up after wearing too-tight shoes—it’s actually a genetic issue! Foot shape runs in families, so some people are more prone to developing bunions than others. If you have low arches, loose joints or tendons, or flat feet, you’re more likely to develop a bunion.
But, even though bunions have a genetic underlying cause, they can be triggered by choices you make. The shoes you wear on a regular basis as well as the work that you do can both significantly impact your chances of developing a bunion. Narrow shoes that have a pointed toe—whether they’re men’s shoes or women’s—are one of the most common causes, and shouldn’t be worn all the time. High heels are especially dangerous, since they push your body weight forward and onto your toes.
If you work in a hospital, restaurant, retail store, etc., you’re also more susceptible to bunions because of the amount of time you spend on your feet.
Dealing with Bunions
The first thing you should do is ditch any too-narrow or uncomfortable shoes and, instead, opt for flexible, wide, and supportive shoes. Shoes like sandals, athletic sneakers, and shoes made of soft leather are good options—anything that offers support and enough room to accommodate the bunion.
It’s also good to look into things you can put inside your shoes to cushion your bunion. Your podiatrist might prescribe custom orthotics to help realign your foot and relieve discomfort. If your bunion is irritated and painful, soaking your feet in warm water can help, as well as using ice packs and anti-inflammatory, over-the-counter drugs.
If you try all of these things for some time and aren’t getting the relief you hoped for, surgery is an option. Any surgery on your feet is a big deal (since you use your feet so much every day) so talk to your podiatrist about your options and whether or not surgery is the right path.
Why You Should Take Bunions Seriously
If left untreated, bunions can not only impact the overall function of your foot: They can also lead to other problems like corns, hammertoes, and ingrown toenails. You might already feel discomfort at that crucial joint but, overtime, your bunion can start to cause serious pain. Eventually you’d have to give up some of your favorite activities—even walking can become difficult.
If you’re tired of dealing with an uncomfortable bunion, it’s time to do something about it! Contact Foot Specialists of Birmingham today to set up an appointment.