A bunion is a bony growth on the side of the base of your big toe. Pressure from your shoe and motion at that joint can cause pain. Bunions gradually become worse until running and even walking are extremely painful.
Causes
A bunion is an arthritic condition that can result from a genetic defect, biomechanical problems (overpronation again is a culprit) or tight-fitting shoes.
Treatment
If you think your bunion is caused by overpronation, try an arch support or custom orthotic device, which will reduce overpronation and minimize the growth of the bunion. Wear a pad over the bunion to reduce friction. If your shoe is rubbing hard over the bunion, cut out the area that touches the bunion. Severely disabling bunions eventually require surgery.
Prevention
Assuming the condition isn't inherited, the most important measure you can take is to wear running shoes that aren't too tight in the forefoot. Also, if overpronation is a problem, you should wear motion-control shoes.
Can you run with it?
Yes, unless the bunions have become too painful.
Run The Planet thanks Running The World for the permission to reprint the article “Fourteen common foot ailments and their cures”. Text copyright © 2001 by Running The World.
