Got Bunions? A Few Important Facts to Know

Studies suggest that about 23 percent of people from 18 to 65 have bunions. What are these growths on the feet and how are they treated? Here is a look at a few important things every person with bunions should know.

Bunions are caused by several things.

Bunions can have several causation factors, such as:

• Deformities that were present when you were born
• Injuries to the foot or repeated foot stress
• Genetics or having a certain foot type

Wearing tight shoes can cause a problem.

People who spend a lot of time in high heels, shoes that come to a narrow point, or shoes that are too narrow for their feet are more prone to having bunions. The pressure on the foot can cause a deformity related to the bones of the feet being pushed forward. Make sure you wear shoes that allow your toes a little room to move. There should also be a little space between the end of your big toe and the edge of your shoe.

Corns and calluses can actually be related to bunions.

If you have a lot of issues with corns and calluses, it can be a sign that you are also dealing with bunions, so take a good look at your feet. Corns and calluses are indicative of high points of localized weight or pressure, which can be related to a bunion. Some people who have bunions naturally shift weight to other parts of their feet, which can cause corns and calluses to form.

Complications of bunions are common.

If you never have any issues with your bunions, consider yourself lucky. Some people develop more serious conditions with their bunions, such as hammertoe, bursitis, or even metatarsalgia, which causes severe pain, tenderness, and swelling in the ball of your foot. Bunion surgery may be necessary if the bunion grows too large, which can happen in some cases.

Contact Us for Help with Bunions

Bunions can be unsightly and painful, and there are treatment options available with the help of a qualified podiatrist. If you have issues with bunions, reach out to us at the office of Dr. Jeffrey Lamour DPM, PA to schedule an appointment or to get further information.