Our feet hold the weight of everything we carry all day. Because of this, it is normal for our feet to develop medical conditions such as bunions. The doctors of Warrenton Foot and Ankle and Fair Oaks Foot and Ankle, serving both Warrenton and Fair Oaks VA, would like to help to answer some of the most common questions about bunions.

What is a Bunion?

A bunion is a growth leading to a deformity causing the slender bone of the toe to grow askew from the other toes. They typically are formed when there is not proper weight distribution on the joint of the toe. It usually happens only to the big toe, but it can affect the other toes if the proper conditions are met. 

Are Bunions Genetic?

Bunions, themselves, are not passed down. However, select conditions that can lead to them happening (such as a unique structure of the foot) can be passed down. 

What Are Risk Factors for Bunions?

While having parents or extended family with bunion issues doesn’t guarantee bunions in your future, certain risk factors such as health and bone structure can be passed on. Other risk factors can include:

• Poorly-fitting shoes (and nearly all high heels);
• Frequent standing, walking, and use;
• Trauma or injury to the foot; and/or
• Arthritis.

What Are Some Prevention Options

To prevent bunions from growing, it is important to wear shoes that adequately fit and provide proper support. This is especially important if you spend a lot of time on your feet. Minimize standing on hard surfaces without padding. If your job requires you to be on your feet, be sure to wear quality shoes designed to accommodate this. Additional pads that are recommended for high/flat arches, or other special circumstances, should also be considered.

What Are Some Treatment Options

As of right now, the only official treatment for bunions that exist is surgery. For mild bunions, there are options for inserts and exercises that can help minimize the continued growth of the bunion. For more severe cases, there are a few surgeries designed to treat the issues including straightening the toe or fusing toe joints together.

Bunions are a problem that impact many people’s lives. If you are in the Warrenton and Fair Oaks VA areas and are unsure whether or not you have bunions, or what to do about them, contact the professionals of Warrenton Foot and Ankle and Fair Oaks Foot and Ankle for a consultation. Our doctors will help answer any questions you have and can help you get on the path to relief.  Call our Warrenton office at (540) 347-9393 or Fair Oaks at (703) 264-0500 to learn more about how we can help you manage this issue.