What Causes Bunions?

The malformation of the joint of the big toe is commonly known as a bunion, although hallux valgus is the medical word for bunions. They arise from a structural issue in the bone of the foot and toes, most commonly in the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint. As a result, the feet are no longer correctly aligned. A bunion is characterized by an outward-pointing toe and a lump on the inner side of the foot. Pain may arise when the bunion gets more noticeable.

Common Causes of Bunions

Your podiatrist in Austin, TX says that the most common reasons for bunions include:

Genetic Conditions

Unfortunately, it’s very common for people to simply inherit a foot type that precludes itself to bunions. When this happens, bunions may not be certain, but it makes good sense to try to avoid the risk factors of bunions.

Ill-Fitting Shoes

The best shoes are made of natural materials, such as leather, that allow the material to stretch. Shoes of vinyl and plastic materials tend to squeeze the feet and can contribute to the development of bunions.

Overweight

When a person is overweight, the weight is not distributed correctly on the feet. This can lead to standing and walking in a manner that can lead to the development of bunions in Austin, TX.

Arthritis

Certain kinds of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis, lend themselves to inflammation and malformation of joints, including the joint where the big toe connects with the foot.

Foot Injury

Whenever you have a foot injury, it’s imperative that you visit your Austin, TX podiatrist for treatment. Foot injuries that are not properly treated can lead to a lifetime of suffering with a bunion.

If you have one or two bunions, you may be able to have it treated by your podiatrist. Contact us today for a consultation.