A bunion is a bump that forms on the outside of the big toe. This foot deformity occurs from years of pressure on the big toe joint (the metatarsophalangeal, or MTP, joint). Eventually, the toe joint gets out of alignment, and a bony bump forms.
CAUSES
FLAT FEET
Flat feet is seen when the arches on the inside of your feet are flattened, allowing the entire soles of your feet to touch the floor when you stand up.
IMPROPER SHOES
Shoes that don’t fit correctly can make an underlying structural or stability issue worse. This can cause a bunion to form or become worse.
FOOT INJURY
Acute injuries to the foot can lead to structural changes and the development of bunions. For example, a foot fracture sustained in the course of an auto accident, or a toe sprain sustained while exercising can be contributing factors to bunion development.
RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS
People with RA are significantly more likely to deal with foot problems. About 90% of them report some level of foot pain. Formation of bunion is more likely found.
Authors
Dr . P. Senthil Selvam, PhD
Professor & HOD, School of Physiotherapy, VISTAS, Chennai.
Dr .D. Hepzibah Rubella, MPT (Ortho)
Research Scholar, School of Physiotherapy, VISTAS, Chennai.
Vels Institute of Science, Technology & Advanced Studies (VISTAS)