A bunion is a bony protrusion that forms on the joint at the base of your big toe. It is a common foot problem and often not a threat to your health. However, bunions can be painful and may make you dread wearing shoes. Conservative treatments like – anti-inflammatory medications, device therapy, and lifestyle adjustments are often all you need to treat bunions. However, if you have chronic pain and limited movement, your orthopedic foot specialist may recommend Mission Viejo foot and ankle surgery to eliminate symptoms and improve function.
The good news is that there are simple tips to help you prevent bunions. If you already have bunions, the following tips can also help prevent them from worsening. They include:
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This may seem obvious but wearing the right shoes is essential for bunion prevention. Tight shoes cause uneven pressure and cause your toes to rub, significantly contributing to bunion formation. When shopping for shoes, consider the following factors.
You should be able to slip your feet into a pair of new shoes without feeling any pinching or rubbing. If you are using a lot of force to slip your feet into shoes, consider going a size or two sizes up. Avoid breaking in a pair of shoes for weeks since this puts stress on your feet. Even after wearing the shoes for a while, they may still not be the right fit. When shopping, keep instant comfort in mind; your shoes should be sturdy but comfortable.
Your shoes should have the right length and width for your foot. Look for styles that accommodate your instep and avoid narrow and pointy shoes. Your instep is the top of your foot; it shouldn’t be a struggle to slip your feet into a pair of shoes. Choose those with broad toe boxes to prevent your toes from rubbing. They should also have soft soles to provide cushion and support.
Nothing puts pressure on your big toe joint like high-heeled shoes. One of the best things you can do for your feet is to give up heels in favor of supportive flats. If you are not ready for this transformation, consider trading them for a few days a week. Also, if you wear heels, try to keep them below two inches to reduce the pressure on your big toe. You can also explore other show styles like block heels and wedges; these are best at distributing weight.
Like any part of your body, your feet require exercise to become stronger and more flexible. Stretching your toes and feet improves your overall foot health, relieves muscle soreness, minimizes foot pain, and keeps you moving.
You use your feet a lot, so they deserve an equal amount of relaxation. It is important to get off your feet if you have been standing or moving for a while. Doing so can help release some tension and pressure.
If you can’t find shoes that fit properly because of a bunion, visit your podiatrist at Aloha Foot and Ankle Associates for treatment to enjoy a pain-free life.
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