04/19/2026
Okay⌠itâs not cute đ I used to think bunions were just genetic. Looking at my momâs feet compared to mine, itâs easy to assume itâs something you either get or you donât.
Genetics do play a role, things like foot shape, joint structure, and tissue quality can all be inherited.
But bunions arenât just about genetics, theyâre heavily influenced by what you put your feet in every day.
Theyâre actually 2â3x more common in women, largely linked to years of wearing narrow, restrictive shoes that compress the toes and change how the joint loads over time.
So while your foot shape and joint structure may be inherited, how that foot functions and how that big toe joint moves is influenced by your environment.
Once the big toe starts drifting inward, it doesnât just stay in the foot. It can change how you push off, how your foot stabilizes, and how force moves up through your ankle, knee, and hip.
The good news is that while you canât change your genetics, you can influence how your feet functionâď¸
Giving your toes more space, improving big toe mobility, and building strength through the foot can all make a difference over time.
Itâs not about âfixingâ it overnight. Itâs about understanding whatâs happening and giving your body the opportunity to move better.
Check our tool in our bio link that can help! Or send to someone who needs to realize that itâs not just looks, but itâs how their toe is moving.