Bunions

What are Bunions?

• Painful area around the big toe joint which may be red and swollen
• The big toe may be stiff and not want to bend and may be painful

What are some of the symptoms?

• An inflammation of the big toe joint that may cause an enlargement
• A bony protrusion, which is also generally associated with the angling of the big toe toward the smaller toes creating pressure at the first joint of the big toe.

What are the causes of Bunions?

• Generally one does not have a choice if they develop a bunion. If there is not enough arch support or support under the ball of the foot the bunion can become worse
Excessive Pronation
• Pronation is a normal movement of the foot that allows the arch to flatten to a degree, which helps the body to absorb shock and adapt to different ground surfaces.
• In analyzing ones gait, first contact is on the heel and outside of the foot; followed by a shift of body weight continuing forward, toward the arch and toes.
• If the foot is weak or tired and/or the footwear is not supportive, then the arch can flatten more than normal, which is excessive pronation.
• Flattening of the arch (excessive pronation) places pressure and excessive force on the big toe joint which can cause degenerative changes and inflammation that can irritate the bunion.
• With excessive pronation, increased stresses can be placed on the foot which can further contribute to ankle, knee, hip and low back problems (a chain reaction)
• Wearing shoes that do not fit correctly - such as narrow shoes or shoes with pointed toes
• Incorrect foot mechanics - excessive pronation
• Injury or arthritis may eventually increase the bunion.
• Wearing high heeled shoes with pointed or narrow toe box
• Insufficient support in the platform (and/or the inside,arch area) of the shoe being worn, can add to the stress on the foot (bunion).

How can Footpro help with Bunions?

Step 1 Analysis

Footpro technicians are able to view abnormal plantar pressure and foot mechanics with the Templo video analysis and pressure mapping scans of the foot. Excessive pronation which may be present through the gait cycle will place more pressure on the 1st mpj than the foot can tolerate. Bunions are a progressive condition and the earlier a gait deficiency is identified the better it is. Determining the amount of pressure placed through the plantar (bottom) surface of your foot is vital in order to find solutions.

Step 2 Custom Insole

Excessive loading underneath the 1stmetarsal can be alleviated with the implementation of a custom insole. By supporting the whole structure of the foot we are able to spread the load more evenly across the foot thus reducing pressure felt through the bunion. The formation of a bunion will tend to cause the foot to roll inwardly (pronate), the use of a custom insole will help to keep the foot in a more neutral position and take stress of the adjoining muscle groups and skeletal structures.

Step 3 Footwear

Footwear is vital in keeping the bunion free from irritation. Having a shoe that is tailored to your specific needs will help alleviate most symptoms felt through the bunion. Footwear needs to be match to the dimensions and characteristics of your foot; our technicians will be able to determine the right shoe based on functionality and fit to provide the best comfort possible.