If you want to stir up a little controversy, ask two different podiatrists, “What causes bunions?”
There are still differing opinions on this matter. Some feel that shoes that are too tight or poor-fitting are the cause. The thinking is that if you wear shoes that pinch the toes together in front (think pointed ballet slippers or high heeled shoes) for many hours at a time, the big toe joint will bend outward at the base of the big toe even when shoes are off.
Gradually, more foot doctors have come to believe that certain inherited foot types are more likely to develop this condition. After all, men sometimes get bunions, though they usually don’t wear shoes with pointed toes, and even kids as young as 6 or 8 years old can be affected. Foot characteristics like flat feet or high arches, overpronation (foot rolling toward mid-body) when you walk, and loose-jointedness can all contribute to this deformity.
Whatever the cause, don’t delay coming to us for bunion treatment. The earlier the problem is addressed, the better chance we have to stop its progression and prevent painful problems in the future. Contact Yuko Miyazaki, DPM for an appointment to see what your best treatment option is. You can reach us in Berkeley, CA by calling (510) 647-3744 or by filling out our online contact form.