BUNION

Bunions develop gradually as the big toe is pushed out of alignment over years of walking on a collapsing arch. When the arch flattens, the forefoot widens and rotates, forcing the big toe to drift toward the second toe. With millions of steps, this becomes a fixed deformity that can lead to pain, joint irritation, and difficulty finding comfortable footwear. A bunion is not simply a bump—it is the long‑term result of improper foot biomechanics.

How Foot biomechanics Contribute to a Bunion

A healthy foot maintains a stable arch that supports the body and directs pressure efficiently through each step. When the arch collapses:

• The forefoot spreads — increasing pressure on the inner edge of the foot.

• The big toe is pushed inward — gradually shifting toward the second toe.

• Joint stress increases — leading to inflammation, stiffness, and the visible bunion bump.

• Gait compensation develops — which can contribute to knee, hip, or lower‑back discomfort over time.

Because the underlying issue is biomechanical, long‑term improvement requires restoring more normal foot posture and function. It’s important to consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment options, especially if pain is persistent or worsening.

Why MASS Posture Orthotics Are Different

Traditional orthotics often focus on cushioning or limiting motion. MASS (Maximum Arch Supination Stabilization) posture orthotics take a different approach: they aim to restore the foot closer to its optimal functional position rather than simply supporting it in its collapsed state.

Key principles of MASS posture orthotics include:

• Full‑contact arch support — distributing pressure across the entire foot rather than allowing collapse.

• Restoration toward ideal posture — encouraging the foot to function closer to its natural alignment.

• Dynamic flexibility — allowing the orthotic to flex and respond to the foot rather than acting as a rigid brace.

• Improved forefoot biomechanics — reducing the forces that push the big toe inward.

By improving the way the foot loads with each step, MASS posture orthotics help address the biomechanical factors that contribute to bunion formation and discomfort.

The Importance of Custom Calibration

Every foot is different, and so is every bunion. That’s why calibration matters.

At East Valley Orthotics, each MASS posture orthotic is calibrated based on the Gibb test, which evaluates forefoot flexibility. This ensures the orthotic flexes appropriately for the individual’s foot structure:

• Flexible forefoot → requires a different level of orthotic stiffness to prevent over‑collapse.

• Rigid forefoot → needs a different calibration to avoid excessive pressure.

• Variable arch height → influences how much support and correction the orthotic should provide.

This personalized calibration allows the orthotic to work with the foot’s natural motion while still guiding it toward healthier alignment. The goal is to reduce the biomechanical stress that contributes to bunion progression and discomfort.

What Patients Often Notice

While every person’s experience is unique, many people report:

• Reduced pressure on the bunion joint

• Improved comfort during walking and standing

• Better overall foot stability

• Less fatigue in the feet and legs

• A sense of “standing straighter” due to improved posture

These improvements come from addressing the underlying biomechanics—not just the symptoms.

Supporting Long‑Term Foot Health

Bunions don’t form overnight, and meaningful improvement takes time. MASS posture orthotics are designed to support healthier foot function with every step. They can be part of a broader care plan that may include footwear changes, stretching, strengthening, or medical evaluation depending on the individual’s needs.