Bunions
A bunion is an enlargement of bone or tissue around the joint at the base of the big toe. This forces the end of the big toe to turn in towards the other toes, while the bone at the base of the toe pushes outward. This condition is also known as Hallux Valgus or enlarged metatarsal heads.
Bunions often, but not always, come with uncomfortable pain - either acute or chronic. Pain can be caused by walking, inflammation or forefoot pressure from footwear.
Bunions are found more often in women than men. They can be caused by many factors, including poor foot mechanics, flat feet, years spent wearing overly tight shoes, rheumatoid arthritis, bone deformities, nerve conditions, or trauma from long-term abnormal foot motion. Some people appear to be genetically predisposed to develop bunions.
Bunions can indicate a fallen transverse arch. Supporting this arch properly can help reposition the foot and alleviate bunion pain, helping the body to heel the area. Footbalance insoles can be custom molded with this specialized support when needed.
Resting the foot, wearing wider footwear, specialized stretches and anti-inflammatory drugs can also help reduce the inflammation and pain of bunions.