Bunions are one of the most prevalent foot issues, particularly among adults. Even though bunions can occur at any age, research shows that up to one-third of adults are affected. Additionally, you may be more likely to develop bunions if your family has a history of the issue or if you have certain medical conditions. Fortunately, Eazy Foot & Ankle can help to diagnose and treat your bunions.
Here are tips to prevent bunions.
- Maintain a healthy weight
Every time you stride, the weight of your body exerts pressure on your feet. Your foot and big toe joints are under greater stress than you should be if you are overweight. The likelihood of the toe joint developing a bunion or becoming irritated and painful increases with the amount of pressure it is exposed to.
- Ensure your shoes are of the right fit and size
Although it might seem apparent, wearing the proper footwear is crucial for preventing bunions. Bunions can significantly develop due to unequal pressure or friction on your toes. The best shoes to prevent bunions should have the following characteristics:
- Instant comfort – You should not feel any pinching or rubbing when you initially slide your feet into a pair of shoes. You should not have to ‘’break in” your shoes for weeks or months. This strains your feet, and even after wearing the shoes for some time, they can still not be the best fit. Your shoes have to be supportive but comfortable. Therefore consider instant comfort when you are shopping for your new shoes.
- Size and fit- Make sure your shoes are the proper width and length for your foot. Choose models that can fit your instep, and avoid shoes that are too tight, thin, or pointed. Your instep is the top of your foot, and you should not struggle to slip your feet into a pair of shoes. Additionally, look for footwear with wide toe boxes to prevent toes from grinding against one another and soft soles to offer support and comfort.
- Support – arch supports help distribute pressure evenly when you are on your feet, rather than concentrating it only on the heels of your feet. Although many shoes already have an inbuilt arch support, you might want to add an arch support insert for ultimate comfort.
- Avoid wearing high heels
High heels are the worst for putting pressure on your toes, especially your big toe joint. If possible, ditch the heels in favor of a pair of sturdy flats. Consider switching out your heels for those flats a couple of days each week if you are not ready to give up your heels just yet.
Additionally, aim to keep the height of your heels under two inches to reduce pressure. Wedges or block heels are the finest shoes for dispersing weight, so consider adding some to your collection.
- Rest your feet
Our feet also need to rest because of how frequently we use them. After standing or moving about for a long time, getting off your feet might help you relax and release some stress.
If you can, remove your shoes for a short period each day to allow your feet to breathe. Your feet will appreciate it even if you are wearing the ideal bunion-preventing footwear.
Call Eazy Foot & Ankle to book your appointment to treat bunions.