Barefeet with bunion on left foot

The Deeper Cause of Bunions

It is not hereditary, and it can be treated naturally. In many cases, it can be reversed. To understand how to achieve this, let's first look towards the root cause underlying bunion formation.

Dr. Ray McClanahan explains the root cause of bunions and foot deformation

Causes of Bunions

Bunions are first and foremost shoe induced; babies are not born with bunions. This deformation slowly and progressively forms as the individual wears footwear with a tapered toe box.

A misconception is that bunions are hereditary, and while the bunion itself is not genetic, there are certain soft tissue principles that can impact bunion development within family lines.

For example, genetic factors control foot width, as well as soft tissue flexibility and integrity, leading conventionally shaped footwear to have a greater impact on those with wider feet.

Natural Treatment

Bunions often respond to conservative care measures and should always be treated by a qualified healthcare professional in a timely and appropriate manner.

Conservative treatment for bunions usually involves the following:

  • Aligning the toes with toe spacers for bunions like Correct Toes

  • Perform range-of-motion exercises and tissue releases like the Bunion Stretch.

  • Wear shoes that are flat, flexible and widest at the ends of the toes.

Will it get worse?

Left untreated? Yes, but luckily that doesn't need to be the case for most feet.

Wearing shoes with a narrow, tapered toebox, your big toe will continue to be push inward and therefore pushing out the first metatarsal. This is the footwear problem, not a foot problem.

When we work to get your bones back into proper alignment, using our toe spacers and a wide toe-box shoe, you will begin to notice less pain as it slowly strengthens over time.
Gif of xray of deformed foot bones of a bunion

Take The Next Steps

Step #1 - ALIGN

Proper alignment is the first step toward better movement. When your toes can spread naturally, your entire foundation becomes more stable and efficient.

  • Encourage natural toe splay
  • Counteract the effects of narrow footwear
  • Promote balanced weight distribution
  • Improve contact with the ground
  • Help create a stable base for walking, running, and training.
Aqua toe spacers placed between toes on bare feet against a rough asphalt surface.

Step #2 - STRENGTHEN

Feet are meant to work. When your toes are properly aligned, the small stabilizing muscles in your feet can activate and do their job.

  • Engage the intrinsic foot muscles
  • Enhance balance and coordination
  • Support arch function naturally
  • Improve foot control during movment
  • Build strength through active wear
  • Designed to be worn while walking, training, or being active.

Step #3 - RESTORE

The body adapts over time, and that includes your feet. With consistent use, Correct Toes help restore more natural movement patterns and long-term foot health.

  • Help reestablish natural toe spacing
  • Reduce foot pain and discomfort from tradition footwear
  • Encourage mobility and flexibility
  • Support healthy circulation
  • Assist in reducing dependency on restrictive footwear
  • Promote long-term foot resilience and adaptability
  • Reinforce a more natural foundation for everyday movement
Black toe socks with individual compartments, low-cut no show design, textured breathable fabric on feet.

Articles on Foot Health
Why Shoes Make “Normal” Gait Impossible - by Dr. William A. Rossi, D.P.M.

Why Shoes Make “Normal” Gait Impossible - by Dr. William A. Rossi, D.P.M.

How flaws in footwear affect this complex human function. Originally published in Podiatry Management, March 1999 Each year, consumers spend hundreds of millions of dollars for “walking shoes” promising to...
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