A bunion is an enlarged area near the big toe caused by a joint being out of alignment. Wearing shoes increases the feeling of pain and swelling related to a bunion condition.

Statistics
• 8 out of 1,000 males have bunions, compared to 38 out of 1,000 females
• Out of people aged 65 or over, 55 out of 1,000 have bunions
• 63% of patients afflicted with bunions see a podiatrist

Causes of Bunions
• Genetic predisposition
• Abnormalities in the biomechanical aspect of the body
• Arthritis
• Footwear that does not fit properly
• Trauma to the feet
• Neuromuscular disorders
• Congenital deformities

What can a patient do?
• Be sure that footwear is roomy and comfortable
• Utilize accommodative foot pads
• Ice the foot

What can a podiatrist do for you?
• Examine the foot from a professional medical standpoint
• Provide custom orthoses
• Suggest effective padding or tape
• Allow for a bone scan, X-ray, CT, or MRI to be performed if needed
• If necessary, perform surgery