Bunions are a very common podiatric issue among adults of all ages. It refers to a bony bump that develops at the base of the big toe. As a result, the front of the foot becomes abnormally-shaped, making it difficult to find shoes that fit well and leading to a variety of podiatric issues, such as foot discomfort and soreness upon walking. A bunion can cause the big toe to shift sideways towards the other toes of the foot, resulting in further disfiguration.
While a common problem, bunions can be painful and lead to alterations in your lifestyle, such as having to avoid activities like running, hiking, and dancing. Bunions can tire out your feet a lot faster, leading to the need for frequent breaks or the use of pain relievers to alleviate symptoms.
Unfortunately, bunion formation is a progressive condition, which means, once it begins, it will continue to get worse. Incorporating good habits can slow down progression and alleviate symptoms, but there isn’t much you can do to completely get rid of bunions without surgery.
The best thing you can do is not to treat bunions after they form, but rather avoid having them develop in the first place. Below are some podiatrist-approved tips for avoiding the formation of bunions.
Wear the Right Footwear
Footwear has a significant impact on your risk of developing bunions. If you wear high-heeled or tight shoes on a daily basis, your risk is pretty high. Any footwear that puts pressure on the front of the foot increases the risk of bunion formation. Our feet are designed to withstand the weight of our bodies using an even distribution of weight on them. Footwear like high-heeled shoes increase the pressure of weight on the front of the foot. As a result, the toes and palm of the foot have to withstand more weight than necessary when you stand and walk. This continuous pressure can lead to disfiguration of the foot, as well as bunions. This is why you should wear comfortable, well-fitted, and supportive shoes that support an even distribution of weight across your feet.
Rest Your Feet
If your occupation or hobbies require you to be on your feet for many hours every day, it is important to let your feet rest. Continuous pressure can lead to overuse and wear and tear on the feet. While your feet are designed to function well with an active lifestyle, hours of standing and walking on a daily basis is not ideal – especially as you get older. Talk to your podiatrist about your lifestyle or occupation and how it may be impacting the health of your feet.
Lose Weight
Excessive weight gain can lead to a host of health issues, including podiatric problems. Your feet are designed to withstand the ideal weight for your body. If you are overweight, your feet are under more pressure than they are designed for. This increases your risk of developing podiatric problems, like bunions. Talk to your doctor about healthy ways to lose weight. It will help your feet, as well as your overall health in many ways.
Visit Your Podiatrist
Bunions don’t form overnight. In fact, it can take years for them to develop enough for you to notice a difference in your feet. As such, it is important to regularly see your podiatrist. They can assess your feet and look for signs that suggest you may be on the road for future podiatric problems. Your podiatrist can recommend ways to improve your lifestyle and footwear, so you can keep such issues at bay.
Expert Podiatric Treatment for Bunions in San Antonio, Boerne, Hondo, Floresville, Kenedy, Uvalde, and Live Oak, TX
The Podiatry Group of South Texas has a team of talented and highly experienced podiatrists who diagnose, treat, and prevent a wide variety of podiatric conditions and injuries. If you want to improve the health of your feet and ankles – or if you suspect you may have a podiatric condition – visit us today to get expert, compassionate care.
Contact your preferred location or request an appointment online. We look forward to serving you soon!
