Evidence supports the link between genetics and acquiring a bunion; the biomechanics of the foot, which is partially genetic, can allow for the development of a bunion. Bunions occur in women more often than men, and its development is progressive. That means if you don’t seek treatment the problem will only get worse while becoming more complex to fix.
So, what is a bunion? A bunion occurs when the joint connecting the big toe to the foot becomes enlarged and misaligned. The enlarged joint forces your big toe toward the other toes and creates a bony protrusion on the inside edge of your foot. This bump can become painfully irritated especially when wearing shoes. A bunion can also occur where the little toe connects to the foot, this is called a “Tailor’s Bunion.”
A person can be prone to bunions because of genetics, but improper fitting shoes, such as those with narrow or pointed toes (heels, cowboy boots) may be a culprit. Pointed heels could be a factor contributing to the statistic that bunions are more common in women. Age also seems to be a factor in bunion incidence; the older population is more likely to suffer from bunions.
Treatment for bunions can range from padding or inserts to a surgery called a bunionectomy. Therefore, the best time to have your bunion looked at by a professional is NOW, before it progresses to the point of requiring surgery to treat. That tiny annoying bump may become so big and painful that you can’t even fit your feet into shoes!
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