What Really Causes Bunions: Shoes or Genetics?

Bunions are both frustrating and painful and are a common reason for podiatric treatment in Austin, TX. But what actually causes them? Some people claim bunions are caused by high-heels or pointed-toe boots, while others are adamant that bunions are a genetic problem. Which is the true underlying cause? Here is a closer look.

Bunions Can Have More Than One Underlying Cause

While it is a common assumption that bunions are usually related solely to either genetics or the shoes you typically wear, most people face more than one underlying cause. Shoes, genetics, and even how you walk can be to blame.

Shoes

If you usually wear excessively tight shoes on your toes, this can be a contributing factor to bunion formation. Over time, the pressure on your big toe pushes the big toe inward, which puts a lot of pressure on the joint and can cause a bunion to form. Shoes that either fit poorly or have a pointed toe are the most common types of shoes to blame.

Genetics

Genetics also play a role in whether you ever have problems with bunions or not. Some people inherit certain foot shapes that can make you more likely to have problems with bunions.

Gait Patterns

Dealing with bunions? Take a look at how you walk. If you walk in a way that puts a lot of pressure on your big toe joint, this may be part of the problem. While you may not be able to change how you walk, custom orthotics or wearing certain types of shoes may help take some pressure off the affected joint.

Looking for bunion treatment in Austin, TX?

Bunions may have a lot of underlying causes, but many of these painful formations can be treated. If you are looking for a podiatrist in Austin, TX, to help with bunion pain, reach out to the office of Jeffery Lamour, DPM, PA, to schedule an appointment.