With decades of experience, our friendly team of Adelaide podiatrists understand the key factors that cause and contribute to the development of bunions.

A bony bump where your big toe meets your foot, a bunion forms when the joint of your big toe moves out of its usual position.

These bumps can be painful and change the overall shape of your feet. The good news is that they can be prevented when identified early.

Causes of bunions on feet

Bunions can develop for a variety of reasons. Early warning signs typically include swelling or pain near the big toe.

While some people are genetically predisposed to develop them more easily, common causes typically include one or more of the following:

• Abnormal gait or foot mechanics that place additional pressure on the joint where your big toe meets your foot
• Flat feet
• Foot injuries
• Footwear that forces toes into unnatural positions (e.g. high-heeled or pointed shoes)
• Osteoarthritis
• Rheumatoid arthritis

Preventing and treating bunions

When it comes to prevention, acting fast if you notice the early signs—a lump, pain, swelling, or redness near the base of one of your big toes—is a great way to reduce your risk of a bunion developing.

Some of the preventative strategies we may explore for you include but are not limited to:

• Foot and toe strengthening exercises
• Helping you select appropriate, supportive footwear
• Using custom orthotics in your shoes

If you’re already living with bunions, we have a number of ways of stopping that pain or slowing their progression. There are also number of corrective surgery options for treating bunions which we may recommend, depending on your individual circumstances.

For help with proactive bunion prevention, management, and treatment, call our experienced Adelaide podiatrists on 08 8338 0622 or book online to schedule an appointment today.