How Do You Get Foot Problems Like Bunions?

Dr. Brian Nagy | June 29th, 2017

Posted In: Bunions, Foot Problems

Bunions, calluses, hammertoes, and other foot problems can be the result of several different things. In some cases, many factors play a role in how your foot changes over time.  Proper foot care and regular visits to your New Hampshire podiatrist will ensure that your feet remain as healthy as possible as you age. Healthy feet means less pain and discomfort, as well as being able to remain active with a high quality of life. Knowing what causes many foot problems will help you protect your feet from possible damage.

Shoes That Don’t Fit Properly

Shoes that are either too small or too large can damage your feet if you wear them for extended periods of time. Shoes that are too large allow your feet to slide inside them, causing blisters and calluses.

Shoes that are too small force the bones and connective tissues in the feet to remain in unnatural positions as you walk. This can permanently damage the structure of your foot. Bunions are often the result of wearing poorly fitting shoes.

Genetics

Genetics play a role in how your feet develop. Birth defects like a clubbed foot can be corrected with surgery,  but some structural abnormalities may remain. Over time your foot may change, accentuating these deformities causing them to be more pronounced. The result is an increase in both pain and discomfort. While many people don’t usually consider genetics to be a problem when it comes to their feet, it is actually a major factor in how well your feet age.

Structural Deformities

Structural deformities that are the result of an accident can also cause pain and discomfort. Deformities can occur as a result of vitamin and mineral deficiencies as well. Injuries to your feet can also be the result of scar tissue that builds up over time. Wear and tear on the bones of the feet can cause bone spurs and growths that limit the range of motion of your feet.

Chronic Conditions

Chronic conditions like gout, arthritis, fibromyalgia, diabetic neuropathy, and osteoporosis are common causes of foot pain. Controlling the condition will help to reduce your pain and discomfort but over time, the progression of the disease can cause damage to your foot.

Preventative foot care is the best way to deal with pain that is caused by chronic health conditions. By addressing the problem early, you can prevent permanent damage to the foot.

Standing For Long Periods

Standing for long periods of time can put pressure on the feet causing bunions and other foot problems. Orthotic shoe inserts provide additional support to your feet and help to keep them from becoming stressed.

If you must stand for several hours during the day, take the time to properly rest your feet at night. Try to take breaks during the day that allow you to elevate your feet slightly, easing the pressure and allowing the muscles to relax.

Your feet are the foundation that allows you to move quickly and efficiently. When they begin to be affected by bunions, calluses, gout, arthritis or other foot problems, your quality of life will begin to suffer.

Scheduling regular appointments with your New Hampshire podiatrist will allow you to be proactive when it comes to caring for your feet. Identifying a potential foot problem when it first appears is literally the first step in maintaining the health of your feet and reducing the risk of bunions or other foot conditions.

The staff of Nagy Footcare are dedicated to helping you keep your feet healthy and strong for as long as possible. By discussing any issues you may be having with Dr. Nagy, you will be guaranteeing that you will receive the best care possible for your feet.

At Nagy Footcare, our best day is the day you wake up with no foot pain.