We have seen bunions in children as early as 4-5 years of age, but they can occur at any age. However, they are more commonly seen in adults. Bunions are more common in women than in men, and they tend to run in families, suggesting a genetic component.
The earlier the age of onset of this type of bump, the more severe the deformity may become, and the more aggressive treatment may need to be. A bunion usually develops slowly over time, and people often ignore the early symptoms. However, this is the best time to seek medical attention, because the earlier treatment begins, the better the outcomes are.
Factors that can increase the risk of developing bunions include wearing ill-fitting shoes, such as high heels or shoes with a narrow toe box, and certain medical conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, that can cause changes in the structure of the foot.
Custom-made orthotics can help to slow down the worsening of these deformities. This conservative remedy redistributes the weight more evenly over the foot and provides cushioning where it is needed to prevent pain.
Remember that Bunions can develop over time and can be caused by prolonged use of ill-fitting shoes or by a genetic predisposition. They can also be caused by certain medical conditions that affects the foot such as arthritis, so it can occur at any age.
If you notice a bump starting to form on the inside of your child’s big toe (or your own), seek prompt medical attention to help slow progression and prevent complications.