Foot Facts: Is there a relationship between flatfeet and bunions?
August 9, 2000
Is there a relationship between flatfeet and bunions? Based on the clinical experience of many podiatrists, the answer is probably yes.
Flatfeet (Pes Planus) result when the foot "pronates" excessively. Pronation is a tri-planar movement of the foot that contributes to the arch of the foot collapsing towards the ground. The factors involved in this movement lead to instability in the large toe joint that may result in the formation of a bunion (actually known medically as Hallux Valgus).
Another interesting factor is genetics. There are indications that flatfeet and bunions may be inherited in many cases. Therefore the attempted prevention of both conditions may be futile.
Patients sometimes have the tendency to blame a certain shoe or an injury as the cause of a bunion. In some cases this could be true. But, in general, genetics may be the biggest culprit. The podiatrist's role is to try to alleviate symptoms related to both conditions either with conservative or surgical treatments.
To schedule an appointment with Dr. Ducach, request an appointment online or call Granite Medical at (617) 471-0033.