Bunions are bony bumps that form on the outer side of the base of your big toe. They are usually painful, and the area surrounding them can be red and swollen. Health experts are unclear on what causes them but agree that they result from abnormal foot structure, particularly joint deformities in the big toes. Moreover, scientists have found a strong genetic link to bunions that suggests genetic inheritance. Whatever the cost, Sherman oaks bunion symptoms can worsen and make walking difficult if left untreated. Here is a review of the risk factors that can predispose you to this condition.
Genetics
As mentioned, scientists have found a genetic link to bunion formation. Some patients with bunions report a family history of the condition, with more than one close family member experiencing similar symptoms. These findings suggest that a particular gene mutation may increase an individual’s risk of developing bunions. However, experts maintain that genetics are not the only factor at play. Some bunion patients are not related to anyone with the condition, and the pattern is yet to be understood.
Arthritis and Other Health Conditions
Arthritis refers to the inflammation of the joint. Several types of arthritis like gout, psoriatic arthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis have been associated with bunions. Due to the joint inflammation, they cause, these conditions can lead to bone deformities in the toes and, subsequently, bunions. Other conditions that can increase your risk of developing this condition include neuromuscular diseases like multiple sclerosis (MS), Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, and cerebral palsy. These conditions affect nervous activity and movement in the feet and can damage your toe joint leading to bunions.
Extended Periods on Feet
Spending extended periods on your feet exerts a lot of pressure on your feet and has been known to cause or worsen multiple medical conditions, including bunions. While standing cannot cause bunions on its own, it can increase your risk of joint damage when coupled with wearing ill-fitting shoes. The constant pressure – from standing and your shoes pressing on your toes – can damage your toe joints and contribute to bunion formation.
Ill-fitting Footwear
According to statistics, bunions affect more women than men. Accounting for other differences, one factor that may contribute to this statistic is footwear. Women are more likely to wear high-heeled or pointed-toe shoes, which podiatrists maintain can harm your feet. These shoes are also a risk factor for bunion formation. While experts are unsure whether ill-fitting shoes create or only worsen bunion symptoms, they do agree that wearing proper footwear can prevent this condition. These include shoes with enough toe room and a more stable platform.
Abnormal Foot Structure
People with abnormal foot structures are more likely to form bunions than people with normal feet. This is because the structure of your foot determines the support your joints get and how they function. Consequently, factors like low muscle tone, flexible joints, loose ligaments, and flat feet can make you more likely to form bunions.
Get Bunion Treatment Today
Bunions progress gradually, with the symptoms worsening in severity over time. While unsightly, the concern over bunions is more than cosmetic. Untreated bunions can cause chronic pain and make it difficult for you to wear shoes or walk. This is why it is important to seek treatment immediately after you notice symptoms. Depending on your preferred outcome, your doctor can prescribe interventions like footwear changes, foot exercise, or even minimally invasive surgery. Call a podiatrist to learn more.
