Ten Ways Bunions on Feet Affect the Rest of Your Body

Bunions, a common foot condition, not only cause discomfort but can also significantly impact your body’s overall health. While bunions primarily affect the feet, their effects can extend beyond that area.

Ways Bunions Affect the Body

Here are ten ways bunions can affect the rest of your body, highlighting why seeking professional help from a reputable foot and ankle surgeon like Stuart J. Mogul, DPM, FACFAS, is essential.

Walking and Standing Issues from Pain and Discomfort

The most immediate and noticeable effect of bunions is foot pain and discomfort. Bunions cause the big toe joint to protrude, leading to pain, swelling and tenderness. This deformity can make walking, standing or even wearing certain types of footwear challenging.

Altered Gait and Posture

Bunions can alter your natural gait and posture. In addition, the pain and structural changes in your foot can affect how you walk, leading to uneven weight distribution on your feet.

Knee and Hip Problems

Due to misalignment, bunions can put more strain on your knees and hips. This strain can result in knee osteoarthritis, hip bursitis or IT band syndrome, leading to pain and limited mobility in these areas.

Lower Back Pain

Your lower back may also suffer from the altered gait that bunions cause. When your feet are not correctly aligned, it can disrupt the natural alignment of your spine, leading to lower back pain and discomfort.

Balance Issues

Bunions can disrupt your balance and stability, increasing the risk of falls and injuries. In addition, the pain and structural changes in your feet can affect your ability to maintain a stable stance, particularly on uneven surfaces.

Corns and Calluses

Bunions increase the likelihood of developing corns and calluses due to constant rubbing and pressure. In addition, it hurts to have these areas of skin buildup.

Hammertoes and Claw Toes

Bunions can contribute to the development of hammertoes and claw toes. These can develop because the misalignment of the big toe joint can cause the other toes to bend unnaturally, leading to other foot deformities and discomfort.

Nerve Irritation

Bunions can press on nearby nerves, leading to nerve irritation and inflammation. This pressure may lead to tingling, numbness or a burning feeling in the affected foot, making prolonged walking or standing uncomfortable.

Joint Stiffness

As bunions progress, the affected joint may become stiff and inflexible. This stiffness can further limit your range of motion and make it difficult to engage in physical activities or enjoy an active lifestyle.

Psychological Impact

Living with bunions can have a psychological impact, affecting your self-esteem and confidence.

Scheduling a Consultation for Bunion Removal

Bunions are not merely a foot problem; they can significantly affect your overall well-being. Contact Stuart J. Mogul, DPM, FACFAS, the doctor professional dancers choose, to schedule a consultation if you have bunions. By addressing them promptly, you can alleviate pain, improve mobility and prevent further complications.