How to Avoid Developing Bunions (Or Keep Them from Worsening)

Bunions are among the most prevalent foot conditions. While they may occur at any age, research indicates that this concern is more prevalent in adults, affecting more than one-third of the adult population in the United States. Besides, if your family has a history of bunions or other foot concerns, or if you have specific health issues, you may be more susceptible to developing bunions. Nonetheless, is there a way of stopping bunions from developing? Alternatively, how can you keep bunions from worsening if they have already appeared? In this post, bunions Bakersfield specialist Dr. Ruben Nieto discusses some of the best bunion management and prevention tips. Continue reading to learn more.
Ensure That Your Shoes Are the Appropriate Fit and Size
It may seem apparent, but choosing the proper footwear is crucial for bunion prevention. Having uneven stress or friction on your toes may significantly lead to the formation of bunions. The ideal shoes for preventing bunions contain the following characteristics:
- Immediate comfort
- Appropriate arch support
- Correctly accommodate the width and length of your foot
However, while selecting the appropriate footwear will not reverse your bunions; it will help ease foot discomfort. Thus, it will keep your bunions from worsening.
Resist Wearing High Heels Regularly (Or Avoid Them Entirely)
High heels exert the most stress on your toes, especially your big toe joint. If you could swap heels for comfortable flats, you should. Conversely, if you are not yet willing to abandon heels, contemplate exchanging them for flats several times weekly. Moreover, if you must wear heels, try to restrict their height below two inches to reduce the strain. If not, you should consider adding block heels or wedges to your shoe collection, as they are the most effective at redistributing weight.
Relax Your Feet
Your feet receive a great deal of wear and tear; thus, they demand equal amounts of relaxation. Resting your feet, particularly after moving or standing for an extended period, may assist relieve stress and tension. If possible, remove your shoes periodically during the day to allow aeration to your feet. Even if you don the ideal shoes to prevent bunions, your feet will be grateful.
Perform Bunion Stretching and Strengthening Activities
Like with other body parts, you may exercise your feet more flexibly and stronger through particular exercises. The benefits of these exercises include less discomfort in the ankles and feet, less fatigue from muscle soreness, and enhanced activity. Some of the exercises to try include:
- Curls
- Rolling
- Stretches
- Pickups
Talk to your physician to learn how to perform these exercises properly.
Observe Your Feet For Any Abnormalities
Being aware of any shifts in your foot structure could help you identify the early signs of a bunion, which usually occurs gradually. Redness, pain, and inflammation in your big toe’s joint are some of the first indications of a bunion.
If you observe a bump or lump around your big toe, or if it starts to turn inwards, the condition is likely more progressed. In either situation, arrange a doctor’s visit without delay. Your physician will address your prevailing concerns and symptoms and advise you on the best way to alleviate bunion discomfort.
Ultimately, these measures can help you avoid bunions or manage the condition, but that does not mean you should not see an expert physician. Sometimes, bunions are not responsive to self-care measures. Thus, from time to time, you will need to contact Diabetic Foot and Ankle Center. At the office, you can access the best in bunion care, thus, assisting you in restoring full functionality of your feet and improved life quality. Schedule a consultation today through mobile or book online to discuss your care options.