We all want to look our best, including wearing high heels and tight shoes. Unfortunately, this fashion choice can come with a price – Bunion formation. Various factors such as genetics, foot injuries, arthritis, and wearing the wrong shoes can cause Carmel bunion.
What are bunions?
Bunions are bony bumps that form on the joint at the base of the big toe. They can cause pain and discomfort, making walking difficult or wearing certain shoes over time.
How do shoes contribute to bunion formation?
When you wear shoes that are too tight, too narrow or have a high heel, you put pressure on the joint of the big toe. Over time, this pressure can cause the joint to shift out of place, forming a bunion. High heels are problematic because they put additional pressure on the ball of the foot, which can exacerbate bunion pain.
How do cosmetics contribute to a bunion?
Cosmetics, such as nail polish and toe rings, can also contribute to bunion formation. When you paint your toenails, you often push them back to get a smooth surface. Toe rings can also cause problems because they pressure the joint, increasing bunion pain.
What can you do to prevent bunions?
The best way to prevent bunion formation is to wear shoes that fit properly.
- Wearing the right type of footwear can help prevent bunions by reducing pressure on the feet and providing adequate support. The shoes should also be made of breathable materials to reduce the risk of developing foot fungus or other infections.
Examples of proper footwear:
- Athletic shoes are designed to provide support and cushioning, making them an excellent choice for preventing bunions. Look for shoes with a wide toe box, a low heel, and a supportive arch.
- Sandals with a supportive footbed and adjustable straps can be good for warm weather.
- Shoes with removable insoles can be replaced with custom orthotics to provide additional support and cushioning, reducing the risk of bunions.
- Shoes made with stretchy uppers can accommodate foot swelling and reduce pressure on the toes.
- Exercise and stretching such as toe scrunches, foot rolling, and calf stretches can help prevent bunions by improving the strength and flexibility of the muscles and tendons in the feet. This can help keep the bones in proper alignment, reducing the likelihood of bunions developing.
If you already have a bunion, there are a few things you can do to manage the pain and prevent it from getting worse.
- Avoid activities that increase pain, such as running.
- You can also apply ice to the affected area to reduce inflammation and pain.
- In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the bunion. However, surgery should be considered a last resort and only after non-surgical treatments such as medications and losing weight have been tried.
You can keep your feet healthy and pain-free for years with a little effort and attention. To explore various treatment options for bunions, seek advice from your doctor at Kyrou Podiatry Associates.
