By Arden Smith, DPM, FACFAS, FACFAOM
A bunion is a prominence on the first joint on the base of your big toe on your foot.
In other words, it’s a sizable bump that forms when the metatarsal bone begins to shift outwards. Bunions are often caused by genetics, but can be the result of several other factors including tight shoes, overpronation caused by the way you walk, and ligament laxity of the foot. Those with flat feet are also more prone to developing bunions than folks with high arches.
Once you have a bunion, you are usually stuck with it -unless you want to undergo surgery. You can manage them to feel more comfortable, but the only way to eliminate, or reverse them is surgical intervention. Untreated bunions can lead to chronic arthritic pain.
Our award winning, expert podiatrists Advanced Foot Care of Manhasset, Huntington, Coram, Woodbury, Mineola, Williston Park, Maspeth and Ronkonkoma are here to evaluate your bunion and advise you on your treatment options.