Hallux Abductus Valgus (HAV) a.k.a. BUNIONS is a common foot deformity. It is more commonly found in women (but men develop this too). This condition is frequently attributed to poor fitting footwear or is related to other foot issues.

Let us 1^st begin with footwear –  The issue here is tight fitting shoes. Shoes that press the toes inward or come to a point tend to create an environment for bunions to develop. What happens from a mechanical standpoint is the individual in tight or pointy shoes will tend to roll off their toe differently. This altered strain causes the muscles to pull with an altered line of force thus pulling the toe inward such that the bunion develops

Next, other foot conditions. For a person who has dealt with say plantar fasciitis or may have fallen arches, this can result in changes in walking pattern. As above, if the individual is rolling off their big toe differently to reduce pain somewhere else. They then may inadvertently create an environment for the same altered line of muscle pull and thus the bunion to develop.

Finally, why more common in women. Well, because women tend to wear the tight fitting/pointed shoes.

What can be done?

First, make the change to properly fitting, non-pointed shoes. Vanity now or pain later…

Next, if you start to notice the big toe drifting inward, you can try a toe spacer that will limit the toe from drifting.

Last, seek some help to improve the toe, foot, or ankle mobility and learn what exercises can be done to limit or slow the progression developing bunions.

For further information or guidance on Bunions and how to treat them (short of surgery), fill out this QUICK FORM to get a personal call back and get your questions answered.