Surgery is the only way to get rid of a bunion for good, but there are things you can do to ease the pain and keep the bunion from getting worse. The following are ways to slow down the development of a bunion.
Wearing appropriate footwear is likely the most important thing you can do to keep your feet healthy and prevent bunions. The best shoes for healthy feet are slightly roomy, have a wide toe box, provide adequate arch support, and have heels of less than 1 to 2 inches. If you enjoy wearing high heels, you may do it occasionally, but you should not wear them daily.
Blocky heels, wedges, and platform shoes are superior choices for shoes with some height. They are more likely to distribute your weight evenly over your foot or to have a shorter angle that does not force you onto the balls of your feet. In addition, tie-up shoes are superior to slip-ons because the laces restrict the foot from slipping forward with each stride. This action creates stress on your great toe joint.
Second, ensure that your foot is adequately supported and positioned. If your foot is misaligned or you have flat feet (fallen arches), wear over-the-counter or prescription orthotics in your shoes. This ensures the optimum alignment and support of your foot. A podiatrist can measure your foot and recommend the ideal shoe for it. You can also purchase splints that help you walk while keeping your big toe straight.
Third, maintain a healthy weight. Every time you take a step, your body weight places pressure on your feet. If you are overweight, your foot and big toe joints are subjected to greater pressure than is necessary. The greater the pressure exerted on the toe joint, the greater the likelihood it will develop a bunion or become swollen and painful.
Find out more about bunions in our extensive guide: What Is a Bunion? A Guide to Bunions, What They Are and How to Treat Them. Call Best Foot Doctor NY today with any foot condition concerns.