Bunions are bony bumps that protrude and form near the base joint of your big toe. They typically grow gradually, but ultimately, they cause pain and make it difficult to wear certain shoes. Dr. Florin Costache and Dr. Kevin Derickson of Denver, CO—based Cherry Creek Foot & Ankle Clinic offer guidance for maintaining healthy, bunion-free feet.
Bunion Causes
While the specific reasons why bunions form are not fully known, there are relevant factors that have been found to contribute to a bunion’s development. These include the following -
- Genetics – Foot Structure.
- Joint/Repetitive Stress.
- Shoes that do not fit correctly.
- Poor Foot Mechanics.
- Medical Disorders
- Overuse, Injuries & Trauma.
Bunion Prevention Tips
In addition to choosing comfortable shoes – which means selecting a toe box that is wide and roomy enough [or NO high heels]; you can help prevent the development of bunions by –
- Using Padded Cushions/Over-the-Counter Orthotics — Padded cushions or over-the-counter orthotics offer support by redistributing pressure away from the bunion area. Bunion splints or non-medicated pads can also offer needed relief.
- Engaging in Toe Exercises/Stretches — Regularly performing exercises or stretches (like picking up marbles with your toes) can improve strength and flexibility – potentially reducing the development of bunions.
- Maintaining a Healthy Weight — Excess weight puts added pressure on your feet, which can cause a bunion to develop or aggravate an existing bunion.
- Avoiding High-Impact Sports/Activities — High-impact activities often create additional stress and may cause bunions to form.
- Making Appropriate Footwear Changes—If you already have bunions, you will likely need to modify the type of footwear you buy at some point. Choosing footwear with a wider toe box and better support can alleviate pressure on the bunion area, providing greater comfort and preventing further issues.
Note that in some cases, bunion surgery may be necessary to correct severe cases that do not respond to conservative measures. Bunion surgery is available to address -
- Issues impacting the joint of the big toe.
- Issues on the bone near/behind the big toe joint.
Contact a Leading Denver, CO Podiatrist for Bunion Prevention Tips & Treatment Options
Having routine checkups is a smart idea if you have a family history or other foot problems. These regular visits can help you identify and address potential issues early, ensuring optimal foot health and preventing complications in the future.
If you experience bunion discomfort or pain related to any other foot issue, contact Dr. Florin Costache and Dr. Kevin Derickson of Cherry Creek Foot & Ankle Clinic at 303-355-1695 or online.
