While your shoes can definitely exacerbate bunions, they do not actually cause them. Instead, you very well may have inherited some unlucky genes from your family, making you prone to developing the painful bump. Abnormal foot structure (such as having no arch) and poor biomechanics (the way in which you step) can both lead to the misalignment of the big toe joint and the formation of a bunion. Bunion development can also be attributed to previous injuries or conditions, like arthritis.
Though not completely to blame for your bunion, your choice in footwear does indeed have an impact. Shoes that are too tight and narrow or that have a high heel squish toes and put pressure on the big toe joint, worsening the bony protrusion. This can cause redness, swelling and pain.
Orthotics and shoes with a low heel and wide toe box will go a long way toward slowing the progression of the problem and easing symptoms. Find out more by calling us at (303) 805-5156.