Both bunions and hallux valgus develop from poor foot mechanics caused by wearing shoes that are too tight or too stiff in the toe area.

When the foot excessively pronates and when the arches collapse while walking or running, bunions and hallux valgus can also occur. The excessive pronation causes the toes to point outwards, and body-weight forces to be centralized at the inside of the ball of the foot during toe-off. With each step, the ball of the foot (or first metatarsal head) rubs against the shoe and a bunion forms over time. The bone enlarges and soft tissue thickens at the points of intermittent pressure.

Change in the size and shape of bones is accompanied by damaging soft tissue stress that leads to inflammation and pain.

Hallux valgus occurs when narrow shoes or shoes with pointy toe boxes force the toes to realign. Over time, the foot’s bony structure and soft tissue maladapt to the shape of the shoe’s toe box. Footwear with narrow, pointy, and stiff toe boxes further contribute to over-pronation.

Historically, over-pronation (collapsing arches) has been thought to be hereditary.

However, modern science has identified that the nervous system plays a critical role in stabilizing the feet and ankles when we walk or run. It is now understood that over-pronation is a symptom of inefficient neuromuscular function caused by conventional footwear use. Conventional footwear use causes poor neuromuscular function throughout the feet, legs, hips and back, when:

• the soles of the feet don’t receive the subtle, varied stimulus that the nervous system requires for healthy function, and
• snug toe boxes, stiff midsoles/outsoles/uppers, and tight lacing restrict healthy foot movement.

To learn more about the modern science, click HERE.

The best way to prevent and treat bunions and hallux valgus is to eliminate the excessive foot movement caused by the collapsing arches and to use footwear that is soft, flexible, and roomier in the forefoot.

Conventional treatment methods for bunions and hallux valgus

Since the late 1890s, the traditional treatment for over-pronation (collapsing arches) has been to artificially support the arches with an orthotic. Other conventional treatment options include:

• taping/stabilizers

• modified footwear

• surgery

Modern science has transitioned away from using long-term support on any body part because it causes a progressive weakening of the body part being supported.

The modern approach to treating bunions and hallux valgus

Science underscores the body's inherent ability to restore and improve its own function when presented with the appropriate challenges. This principle lies at the heart of contemporary therapeutic methods used to correct and enhance neuromuscular function, particularly in foot health.

Therapeutic rehabilitation, focusing on the body's natural mechanics and responses, emerges as the safest and most effective strategy for addressing the underlying causes of conditions like bunions and hallux valgus, shifting the focus from temporary relief to long-term health and functionality.

Understanding the Fundamentals:

• Proper Technique: This refers to rehabilitative exercises that concentrate on re-establishing optimal neuromuscular function. It's about reinforcing healthy mobility, muscle strength, stability, and alignment in a safe manner.

• Right Stimulus and Right Movement: Effective movement is predicated on the quality of sensory information the brain receives, particularly from the soles of the feet. The feet's nerve endings are crucial in transmitting this data, ensuring coordinated movement throughout the musculoskeletal system. When sensory input is compromised—as is often the case with conventional footwear—the body's natural reflexes and movements can be inhibited.

Adopting the Modern Approach:

1. Barefoot Walking: Engage in barefoot walking, particularly on natural surfaces, as frequently as feasible. This practice delivers the optimal stimulus for healthy neuromuscular function, promoting the right kind of movement.

2. Utilization of Biopods®: Incorporate Biopods footwear or insoles into your routine. Our footwear is designed to create an ideal environment for proper foot technique, while our insoles are crafted to enhance the sensory feedback in your conventional shoes. For optimal results, use in footwear that is soft, flexible, and allows for natural movement of the arches and toes.

3. Consultation with Healthcare Professionals: Prior injuries might have led to the formation of fibrotic scar tissue. It's advisable to consult with a healthcare practitioner about therapies that can address these issues to facilitate better foot function.

Conclusion:

The modern approach to foot health is integrative and proactive, focusing on encouraging the body's natural ability to heal and maintain itself. It's an investment in your long-term health and wellbeing, steering away from temporary fixes and instead, fostering lasting, comprehensive foot health.

Consult with your healthcare practitioner to ask about employing soft tissue mobilization therapies to address the fibrotic scar tissue that may have formed prior to using Biopods.

For more information on what to expect when using Biopods, click HERE.