Bunions are a common foot problem that affect people of all ages, especially adults who spend long hours on their feet or wear tight, narrow shoes. A bunion is a bony bump that forms on the side of the big toe joint. Over time, the big toe pushes inward toward the second toe, causing pain, swelling, and difficulty walking.

At Roadrunner Foot and Ankle in Peoria, Arizona, we help patients treat bunions early and prevent them from getting worse. Understanding what causes bunions and how to manage them can make a big difference in your foot health.

What Causes Bunions?

Bunions are often caused by a combination of factors, including:

• Genetics: Bunions can run in families due to inherited foot structure.
• Improper footwear: Shoes that are too tight, pointed, or have high heels can force the toes into an unnatural position.
• Flat feet or low arches: These structural issues can place added pressure on the big toe joint.
• Arthritis: Inflammatory joint conditions can also lead to bunion development.

Signs and Symptoms of a Bunion

• A visible bump on the side of the big toe
• Swelling, redness, or soreness around the joint
• Corns or calluses where the toes overlap
• Persistent or intermittent foot pain
• Limited movement of the big toe

How Are Bunions Treated?

At Roadrunner Foot and Ankle, we offer a variety of bunion treatment options based on the severity of your condition:

• Wearing wider, more supportive shoes to relieve pressure
• Custom orthotics to help align the foot and reduce pain
• Padding or taping to protect the bunion and reduce friction
• Anti-inflammatory medications to ease swelling
• MLS Laser Therapy to reduce inflammation and improve joint mobility
• Bunion surgery may be recommended for severe cases where conservative treatments no longer provide relief

How to Prevent Bunions

• Choose shoes with a wide toe box and proper arch support
• Avoid high heels or shoes that crowd your toes
• Use custom orthotics if you have flat feet or poor alignment
• Stretch and strengthen your feet regularly to maintain flexibility

Don’t Wait for Bunion Pain to Get Worse

If you’re starting to notice a bunion or are already dealing with discomfort, don’t wait. The sooner you seek treatment, the better your results will be. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Margaret Withrow or Dr. Dylan Kaumaya at Roadrunner Foot and Ankle in Peoria, Arizona, and let us help you stay active and pain-free.