Do Men Get Bunions? Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention Tips for Men

Understanding Bunions

A bunion is a bony protrusion that develops on the joint at the base of the big toe. Bunions form when the big toe gradually angles toward the second toe, causing a bump on the inside edge of the foot.

Bunion Causes

Bunions tend to run in families but wearing tight, narrow shoes that squeeze the toes together is the most common cause. Other risk factors include:

• Genetics
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Foot injuries or deformities
• Ligament laxity
• Excessive pronation (rolling in) of the foot

As the big toe drifts inward, the tendons and ligaments around the joint tighten and pull the toe bones out of alignment. The joint swells and protrudes outward, forming the bunion.

Bunion Symptoms

Common signs and symptoms of bunions include:

• A visible bump on the side of the foot
• Toe drifting towards the second toe
• Redness, swelling and pain around the joint
• Hard skin and calluses under the big toe
• Difficulty finding wide enough shoes
• Pain and irritation with shoe pressure

Bunions usually get progressively worse over time without treatment. The big toe may overlap or underlap the second toe.

Diagnosing Bunions

Bunions are diagnosed by examining the foot. Your doctor will look for:

• Prominence of the inner foot bone
• Degree the big toe angles inwards
• Redness, swelling, skin irritation
• Range of motion in the joint

X-rays, CT scans or MRIs may be used to evaluate the bone structure and look for signs of arthritis.

Do Men Get Bunions?

Yes, men can and do get bunions, although they are less common than in women. A number of factors can cause bunions to develop in men.

Genetic Predisposition

Genetics play a role in bunion development. Having a close family member with bunions increases your risk. Foot structure and joint laxity that are inherited can set the stage for bunions.

Tight, Ill-Fitting Shoes

Shoes that are too narrow in the toe box or excessively tight can cause crowding of the toes and force the big toe inward. While high heels are a notorious culprit for women, tight men's dress or casual shoes can also contribute to bunions.

Injury or Arthritis

Injuries to the foot that cause fractures, ligament damage or dislocations can increase the risk. Joint abnormalities or arthritis conditions like rheumatoid arthritis that affect foot structure and mobility may also lead to bunions.

Certain Sports

Some sporting activities where feet get squeezed into tight shoes or bear excess impact seem to spur bunions, including running, soccer, football, tennis and basketball. Ballet is well known for causing bunions with women but men dancers are also susceptible.

Flat Feet

Overpronation or flat feet can cause the foot arch to collapse and big toe to drift inwards, forming a bunion. Men with naturally low or fallen arches may be at greater risk.

Bunions Often Develop Gradually

Bunions tend to develop slowly over many years. Men in their 30s, 40s and beyond are more prone as a lifetime of foot stresses, tight shoes and biomechanical imbalances take their toll. Heredity also plays a role.

Bunion Treatments

Several treatments are used for relieving bunion pain and correcting the deformity. Conservative care is tried first but surgery may be needed in severe cases.

Pain Relief Medications

Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen can ease the pain and inflammation of bunions. Your doctor may prescribe stronger NSAIDs or recommend cortisone injections for relieving symptoms.

Ice and Rest

Applying ice packs and resting the foot can calm bunion inflammation and soreness during flare ups. Avoid any pressure or activities that aggravate the bunion.

Bunion Pads and Splints

Pads cushions the painful protrusion. Splints keep the big toe properly aligned and can be worn at night. They help prevent the bunion from worsening.

Orthotics and Special Shoes

Custom orthotics realign the foot. Special shoes with a wide toe box provide room for bunions and prevent compression. Stretching shoes soften the leather to accommodate bunions.

Physical Therapy

Exercises can strengthen muscles around the joint and increase flexibility. This helps take pressure off the bunion and improves function.

Bunion Surgery

If conservative treatments fail, bunion surgery can realign the bones and remove the bony bump. This relieves pain and improves appearance of the foot. Surgery often requires several months of recovery.

Preventing Bunions

You can reduce your risk of developing bunions by taking these preventive measures:

Wear Properly Fitting Shoes

Choose shoes with a wide, deep toe box that do not constrict your toes. Have both feet sized properly when buying shoes. Break in new shoes gradually.

Select Appropriate Footwear

Avoid narrow, pointed shoes with high heels. Opt for lower heels under 2 inches. For exercise, wear athletic shoes with good arch support and shock absorption.

Use Orthotics

Orthotics help maintain proper foot alignment and take pressure off joints. Over-the-counter or custom orthotics may help prevent bunions.

Practice Good Foot Care

Moisturize feet and avoid going barefoot to prevent calluses. See a podiatrist for discomfort or changes in the feet. Address any foot injuries promptly.

Manage Arthritis Conditions

Follow all medical treatment for rheumatoid arthritis or psoriatic arthritis to minimize damage to foot joints.

While heredity plays a role, taking these steps can help you steer clear of developing painful bunions on your feet.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.