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Contents
  • Genetics: It's in Your DNA
  • Foot Shape and Mechanics
  • Medical Conditions
  • Occupation and Lifestyle

Are You at Risk for Bunions? 5 Surprising Factors to Consider

Are You at Risk for Bunions? 5 Surprising Factors to Consider

Beyond Tight Shoes

While ill-fitting shoes are often blamed for bunions, the reality is more complex. Several factors can increase your risk of developing this painful foot condition.
Contents
  • Genetics: It's in Your DNA
  • Foot Shape and Mechanics
  • Medical Conditions
  • Occupation and Lifestyle

Genetics: It's in Your DNA

Contrary to popular belief, bunions can run in families. If your parents or grandparents had bunions, you might be more prone to developing them too. This genetic predisposition often relates to inherited foot shape or structure that makes bunion formation more likely.

Foot Shape and Mechanics

Certain foot types are more susceptible to bunions. For example, having flat feet or low arches can increase your risk. The way your foot moves when you walk (your gait) can also play a role. If your foot rolls inward too much when you step (overpronation), it can put extra stress on your big toe joint.
Bunions are a painful foot condition often caused by genetic predisposition, certain foot shapes, and mechanics like overpronation.

Medical Conditions

Some health conditions can increase your bunion risk. Rheumatoid arthritis, for instance, can cause inflammation in your toe joints, potentially leading to bunion formation. Conditions that affect connective tissue, like Marfan syndrome, can also make you more prone to bunions.

Occupation and Lifestyle

Jobs or activities that put a lot of stress on your feet can contribute to bunion development. Ballet dancers, for example, are at higher risk due to the extreme positions their feet endure. Similarly, jobs that require long periods of standing or walking, especially in uncomfortable shoes, can increase your risk.

FAQs

Do only women get bunions?

No, men can develop bunions too, though they're more common in women.

Can children develop bunions?

Yes, though it's less common than in adults.

Does weight affect bunion risk?

Excess weight can put more pressure on your feet, potentially increasing risk.

Can bunions be prevented?

While not always preventable, proper foot care can reduce risk.

Knowledge is Power

Understanding your risk factors for bunions can help you take proactive steps to protect your foot health.
Curious about your bunion risk? Chat with Doctronic to assess your personal risk factors and learn prevention strategies.
Additional References
  1. Nix S, Smith M, Vicenzino B. Prevalence of hallux valgus in the general population: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Foot Ankle Res 2010; 3:21.
  2. Nix SE, Vicenzino BT, Collins NJ, Smith MD. Characteristics of foot structure and footwear associated with hallux valgus: a systematic review. Osteoarthritis Cartilage 2012; 20:1059.
  3. Haas C, Kladny B, Lott S, et al. [Progression of foot deformities in rheumatoid arthritis--a radiologic follow-up study over 5 years]. Z Rheumatol 1999; 58:351.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.