Causes Of Bunions

By Ade Adetunji, DPM

Largo Foot and Ankle Health Center

. http://www.largofoot.com/

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Causes Of Bunions

A bunion is a “bump” on the joint at the base of the big toe the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint that forms when the bone or tissue at the big toe joint moves out of place. The toe is forced to bend toward the others, causing an often painful lump of bone on the foot. Because this joint carries a lot of the body's weight while walking, bunions can cause extreme pain if left untreated.

Bunions are among the most common type of foot ailment today's podiatrist treats, especially in women. Studies shows that women are anywhere from two to nine times more likely to develop a bunion than men. While your high heels and peep toes are partially to blame, your foot type (passed down through your family) is the true culprit.

Bunions form when the normal balance of forces that is exerted on the joints and tendons of the foot becomes disrupted. This disruption can lead to instability in the joint and cause the deformity. Bunions are brought about by years of abnormal motion and pressure over the MTP joint. They are, therefore, a symptom of faulty foot development and are usually caused by the way we walk and our inherited foot type or mostly pointed shoes.

Although bunions tend to run in families, it is the foot type that is passed down not the bunion. Parents who suffer from poor foot mechanics can pass their problematic foot type on to their children, who in turn are prone to developing bunions. The abnormal functioning caused by this faulty foot development can lead to pressure being exerted on and within the foot, often resulting in bone and joint deformities such as bunions and hammertoes.

Other causes of bunions are foot injuries, neuromuscular disorders, or congenital deformities. People who suffer from flat feet or low arches are also prone to developing these problems, as are arthritic patients and those with inflammatory joint disease. Occupations that place undue stress on the feet are also a factor; ballet dancers, for instance, often develop the condition.

While your high heels and peep toes are partially to blame, your foot type (passed down through your family) is the true culprit. Wearing shoes that are too tight or cause the toes to be squeezed together is also a common factor, one that explains the high prevalence of the disorder among women.