Bunions are a common source of forefoot pain, and understanding why they form can help patients address symptoms early and prevent progression. While the bump on the inside of the foot is easy to see, bunions are actually caused by deeper changes in bone alignment. As a fellowship-trained orthopedic foot and ankle surgeon, Dr. Julie Neumann helps patients identify the underlying causes of their bunion discomfort and provides effective management strategies to address them.

The Most Common Reasons Bunions Develop

Several factors can contribute to the formation of bunions. The main causes include:

Genetics and Foot Structure: Bunions often run in families. Inherited traits such as flat feet, low arches, hypermobility, or joint instability increase the likelihood of the big toe drifting towards the other toes over time.

Footwear that adds pressure: Shoes do not cause bunions on their own, but high heels, narrow toe boxes, and tight athletic shoes can accelerate the progression and exacerbate symptoms.

Joint Instability and Abnormal Mechanics: Overpronation, weak foot muscles, and imbalanced walking patterns place added stress on the big toe joint and can gradually shift the big toe.

Prior Injury or Arthritis: Past sprains, fractures, or inflammation from arthritis can deform the joint of the big toe and contribute to bunion development.

Repetitive Stress from Activity: Running, sports, and prolonged periods on the feet do not directly cause bunions, but they can exacerbate symptoms in individuals with underlying structural risk factors.

Can Bunions Go Away on Their Own?

Bunions do not go away on their own. Once the bones in the big toe begin to shift out of alignment, the deformity will not reverse naturally. Although the bump will not disappear without corrective treatment, many patients can ease discomfort with the right conservative approach.

Supportive footwear, orthotics, padding, stretching, and changes in daily activity can all help reduce pressure on the joint and improve comfort. When these strategies are no longer effective, Dr. Neumann may recommend a surgical procedure to restore proper alignment and long-term function.

Expert Bunion Care in Baton Rouge

If bunion discomfort is starting to interfere with your daily activities, it may be time to consult a specialist. Dr. Julie Neumann provides comprehensive bunion care in Baton Rouge, utilizing advanced foot and ankle expertise to help patients achieve lasting relief.

Whether you are managing early symptoms or considering surgical correction, she focuses on guiding each patient toward comfortable, confident movement. Schedule an appointment today to take the first step toward improved foot health.