If you’ve ever had a bunion, you know they can be extremely uncomfortable and get in the way of living your daily life. Bunions can prevent you from wearing your favorite footwear, taking part in sports and other physical activities, limit mobility, function, and even cause chronic pain.
If you notice that a bunion may be forming on your foot, or you already have a bunion that’s getting worse, continue reading to learn about how to prevent and manage this condition.
What are Bunions & How Do They Form?
Bunions are bony bumps that form on the inside of the foot. They usually form at the base of the big toe when the big toe joint is repeatedly forced out of place. This can occur from wearing pointed-toe shoes, shoes that are too narrow, high heels, or due to injuries, genetics, arthritis, and birth deformities.
How to Prevent A Bunion
The best way to avoid bunions is to wear the appropriate footwear. Some tips that can help you prevent the development of bunions include:
- Avoiding shoes that cause your toes to rub together
- Avoiding pointed-toe shoes
- Avoiding shoes that are too narrow or “pinch” your feet
- Avoiding high heels or wearing them as little as possible
- Avoiding ill-fitting shoes you have to “break in”
- Wearing shoes with good arch support
- Wearing shoes that accommodate your instep
- Wearing shoes that feel instantly comfortable when you first try them on
If you follow the tips listed above, you’ll help protect your feet from bunions and a variety of other podiatric conditions.
How to Prevent Bunions From Getting Worse
The only permanent way to remove a bunion is with surgery. However, there are several non-surgical ways to prevent bunions from getting worse and reduce your discomfort.
- Wear shoes that fit your feet properly and are comfortable
- Wear shoes with wide toe boxes
- Avoid heels and pointed-toe shoes
- If you wear heels, go for a wedge style, block style, or something below two inches in height
- Rest your feet often
- Do foot exercises and stretches to reduce muscle soreness, stiffness, and pain, and improve flexibility
If you have a bunion, the tips listed above can help improve your daily comfort while also slowing the progression of the bunion’s growth.
Additionally, it’s important to monitor your feet closely for changes, especially if bunions and foot problems run in your family. This way, should a bunion begin to form, you can take the proper precautions to reduce its growth and its impact on your mobility.
Contact Us at Mitchell Foot & Ankle, P.C.
If you’re dealing with bunions, blisters, fungus, corns, calluses, or other foot problems, Mitchell Foot & Ankle, P.C. can help. As an educated and experienced podiatrist in Hyde Park, our team is comfortable tackling a variety of foot conditions. View our services to learn more about what we offer.
Call us today at (773) 324-3338 to schedule an appointment, or contact us online.