How to prevent the development of bunions

Flat shoes such as flip flops and ballet flats can also lead to the development of bunions, especially pointy shoes that squeeze the toes together in a cramped space.

Check out the following tips to learn how to prevent the development of bunions and stop existing bunions from worsening.

Wear low heels

If you’re required to wear dressy shoes for work, or if you simply enjoy the way high heels make you look and feel, consider swapping out your four- or five-inch heels for those that are less than two inches. Avoid buying pointy-toed shoes and choose heels with a round toe box instead. If you insist on continuing to wear high-heeled shoes, swap out stilettos for wedges or chunky heels, which will provide your feet and ankles with better support.

Commute to work in comfortable shoes

If you live in an area in which you walk or commute to work via bus, train, or subway, invest in an attractive pair of athletic shoes to wear for the entire commute, then put your high heels or dress shoes on once you arrive at work. This practice can significantly lower your risk for bunions if you’re constantly having to walk far distances in high heels.

Change your exercise routine

While running is an ideal form of cardio exercise, runners frequently experience a combination of overuse injuries and are often at higher risk for developing bunions. If you run on a daily basis for exercise, modify your exercise routine so you’re running less often, maybe two or three times per week. On the other days of the week, engage in low-impact exercises such as swimming, cycling, walking, or yoga. When you do run, make sure you’re wearing a quality pair of running shoes that will fully absorb the shock of impact that would otherwise affect your feet.

See your podiatrist

Podiatrists have the ability to detect signs of bunions before they start triggering feelings of pain and discomfort. During the appointment, your podiatrist will fully examine your feet and may perform x-rays to determine if your toes are starting to shift. If your family is genetically predisposed to develop bunions, take your children to the podiatrist as well so they can also be screened for bunions.

Wear custom orthotics

Custom orthotics are special shoe inserts that form specifically to your own feet. Custom orthotics can last for several years, and will fit in most of your shoes, including athletic shoes. You can purchase orthotics from a retailer, or visit your podiatrist to have orthotics custom-made for your feet, which is the recommended option. Then, when buying shoes in the future, you can bring your orthotics with you to verify that they’ll fit comfortably in your new shoes.

Are you at risk for developing bunions? Call Kansas City Foot Specialists to schedule an evaluation at (913) 338-4440, or request an appointment online so we can determine the true cause of your injury and get you back on your feet.