Ever wondered what that bony lump on the side of your foot is? Chances are it's a Bunion. Bunions are relatively harmless and thankfully do not usually require any medical intervention. However, when left to their own devices, they can cause heaps of pain and discomfort, drastically impacting your quality of life.

If you’re suffering from a Bunion or simply want to ensure you do not develop one, we’re going to take you through the causes, effects and treatments.

What is a Bunion?

TA Bunion, also known as Hallux Valgus, is a bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of the big toe. It is a common foot condition characterised by the misalignment of the big toe towards the other toes, which causes the toe joint to protrude.

What Causes Bunions?

The exact cause of Bunions is not entirely clear, but several factors are believed to contribute greatly to their development.

Here are some believed causes of Bunions:

Genetics
Abnormal foot structure
Improper footwear
Joint instability
Injury or trauma to the foot
Hormonal changes in pregnant women

Who is at Risk of Developing Bunions?

Several factors can increase your likelihood of developing a Bunion, no matter your age or occupation. Here are some ways you may be at risk of developing Bunions:

You have a family history of the condition
If you wear high heels or tight footwear regularly
Old age due to the supportive tissue in the feet weakening over time
If your occupation involves standing for long periods of time such as nurses, teachers, waiters, retail workers etc

How to Know if You Have a Bunion?

Bunions are typically characterised by their physical, bumpy appearance. However, since symptoms and pain can vary from person to person, here’s what you should look out for if you think you have a Bunion:

A bony bump on the base of the big toe or inside of the foot
A deviation or misalignment in the big toe
Joint pain and stiffness in the foot or toes
Calluses or corns
Swelling or redness around the big toe joint

How are Bunions Diagnosed?

Bunions can be diagnosed in several ways depending on the symptoms you are experiencing. Here are some of the most common diagnostic methods a doctor will use:

A look at your medical history
A physical examination of your feet
Imaging tests via ultrasound or X-ray

How are Bunions Treated?

Bunions will be treated dependent on the severity of the condition. There are many ways a doctor can treat the condition. Though these measures may not heal the pain entirely. However, they can reduce and prevent further injury from occurring.

Here are the most effective treatment options:

Supportive footwear
Physical therapy exercises
Rest from activity or modified activity. See our tips for low-impact running.
Pain-relief medication
Surgical intervention
Corticosteroid injections

How Can I Prevent Bunions?

While it's not always possible to prevent Bunions, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of developing this condition or minimise the chances of reoccurrence. Here are some of the best preventative measures to implement:

Wear supportive footwear and avoid high heels when possible.
Maintain a healthy body-weight.
Perform foot stretches and strengthening exercises.
Implement a daily foot care routine.

What are the advantages of wearing INFINIRI socks?

INFINIRI intelligent cushioning socks are specially designed to help prevent pain and discomfort caused by Bunions. Our socks are designed thoughtfully with every lifestyle and function in mind to allow for greater independence and freedom at the gym, at work or at home.

Here's why you should wear INFINIRI socks:

Splayfoot support pads offer relief to the front arch of the foot and the metatarsophalangeal joints of the big toe
The biomechanics of the toes normalise and shock absorption distributes weight load on the metatarsal heads
Rest from activity or modified activity. See our tips for low-impact running.
The pressure on the big toe is reduced towards the other toes, and prevents the big toe from pulling outwards
Supportive pads lift and cushion the metatarsal bones, enabling your foot into its natural, healthy position to help prevent pain when you perform physical activities, including intense exercise and daily tasks
The thinned fatty tissue under the sole of the foot is replaced by the soft forefoot cushioning within the socks

Take an in-depth look at the technology and innovation behind INFINIRI here.

Be sure to consider that while INFINIRI socks act as preventative and protective footwear, they are not a replacement for medical intervention. If your symptoms worsen, you should consult with a healthcare professional or seek immediate medical attention.

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Hallux Valgus