Bunions are a common foot condition. They are characterized by a bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of the big toe. A bunion can form when your big toe pushes up against your other four toes. This results in the joint becoming swollen and noticeably misshapen. This can lead to pain and difficulty walking, which can impact your daily life. Bunions can impact people of all ages, but you may wonder, can men get bunions too?
Can Men Get Bunions Too?
People of all ages, ethnicities, and genders can get bunions. While women are more likely to develop bunions, men can also get them. Women are more likely to be impacted by the foot condition due to a variety of factors. This includes women’s foot structure, genetics, and the likelihood that women will wear shoes that can lead to bunions. Shoes that are tight or narrow can be difficult on your feet, in addition to heels as they put unnecessary pressure on the toes. Despite the higher risk for women to develop the condition, men can definitely be impacted by bunions.
Causes of Bunions
Bunions can form for a variety of reasons. Consider the following causes of bunions.
- Footwear: Certain shoes can place you at a higher risk for bunions. Shoes that are tight or narrow can place extra pressure on your toes. Additionally, wearing heels can also cause bunions. Wearing heels places a lot of pressure on your toes due to the full amount of your weight being placed on them.
- Age: Those who are older are at a higher risk for bunions. This is because the natural aging process can impact the structures in your feet. The ligaments and tendons that support your feet weaken which can ultimately result in bunions.
- Natural Foot Structure: Certain foot structures are more of a risk when it comes to bunions. Those with high arches or flat feet are more prone to bunions. This is because certain foot structures are prone to instability and shifting, which can put too much pressure on your toes.
- Family History: Research has shown that a person’s likelihood of developing bunions can be increased if there is a family history of the condition. While this does not mean that you are guaranteed to develop the foot condition, you should take preventative measures to reduce your risk. It can be helpful to talk to a professional skilled in podiatry in Oxnard for effective preventative measures.
- Arthritis: If you have arthritis, it can place you at a higher risk for bunions. Arthritis directly impacts joints by causing inflammation. If the joint in your big toe becomes inflamed, it can lead to a bunion.
Symptoms of Bunions
Bunions are easily noticeable through a physical examination of your foot. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact a podiatrist right away.
- Big toe turned toward your four other toes
- A bony bump on the first joint of your big toe
- An inability, or decreased ability, to move your toes
- Pain, especially when you wear shoes
- Difficulty wearing shoes or finding shoes that fit
- Red, thickened skin on the inside edge at the base of your big toe
- Corns and calluses (if your big toe overlaps your second toe)
Podiatry in Oxnard
If you experience any of the symptoms of bunions, it’s important to contact a podiatrist for help. It is easier to treat bunions in their early stages. Your treatment options vary depending on the severity of your bunions. The team at Foot & Ankle Concepts, Inc. are bunion removal specialists. They have helped countless patients address their bunions so it no longer impacts their daily life.
