Ask the Experts
- What is a foot orthosis?
- I am pregnant and suffering from low back pain. Is there anything I can do?
- What is an "overuse injury"?
- What is "vertigo" and how can physical therapy help?
- What is "fibromyalgia," and how can physical therapy help?
- What should I expect from physical therapy?
- What is "Carpal Tunnel Syndrome"?
- Can I prevent bone loss?
- What is a "bunion"?
- What kind of problems do physical therapists treat?
- I have arthritis. Is it okay to exercise?
A: Hallux valgus, also known as a "bunion", is an inflammation of the joint formed by the foot and the base of the big toe. It is progressive, and the eventual "cure" is surgery. This condition is hereditary and more often seen in women than men.
Wearing high-heeled shoes with a narrow toe box (leading to pressure on the joint, as well as shortened calf muscles) has been shown to be a contributing factor. But the most common cause of bunions is related to a collapsed arch. Therefore, it is very important to wear shoes with good arch support (especially during high impact athletic activities) early in life.
Wearing high-heeled shoes with a narrow toe box (leading to pressure on the joint, as well as shortened calf muscles) has been shown to be a contributing factor. But the most common cause of bunions is related to a collapsed arch. Therefore, it is very important to wear shoes with good arch support (especially during high impact athletic activities) early in life.
