What Causes Bunions & What Kind of Shoes Should You Wear for This Condition



Source: gethealthyu.com

Does wearing pointy shoes and high heels make you go through hell?! Does it hurt when you wear shoes like this, especially on the big toe joint?! If so, you are dealing with one of the most common conditions in women – bunions. Formally known as hallux valgus, bunions are bony projections also known as bony malformations which can be painful to touch and movement. As the condition worsens redness or swelling can appear and the great toe can angle towards the second toe, causing a deformation along the inside of the foot.

It is believed that there are several factors that can increase the risk for their appearance, out of which wearing high heels is the main reason. Wearing not comfortable high heels and pointed shoes, in general, are one of the most common reasons for the development of this condition in women. Except for this, women can inherit this condition from some family member/s. Regardless of the reasons for its appearance, bunions must be treated right, and the best cure for it is choosing the right shoes for women with bunions.

What Kind of Shoes to Wear?


Source: @paulcarrollshoes


According to specialists, women who have a smaller bunion can wear comfortable shoes with a roomy toe. Since high heels can put and extra pressure on bunions, specialists recommend wearing low-heeled shoes less than 2.5cm or 5cm. They also need to have enough room to fit the toes comfortably and to achieve this, it's advised for women to choose a half size up in order to get the right fit. Another thing to have in mind when choosing shoes for women with bunions is buying shoes with added depth. This can give your foot enough room and will allow you to feel as comfy as possible no matter how many hours you are wearing them. When choosing roomier shoes, you'll have the ability to add an insert which can add additional support to your feet. In case your feet are completely deformed because of the bunions, there is a chance for you to choose custom-made shoes for women with bunions.

Source:@paulcarrollshoes


Except for the aforementioned things, specialists recommend choosing function over fashion. Besides having a lot of room in the front part of the shoes, they also need to have a soft sole to cushion the feet every time you take a step. Regarding the material, leather is considered the most friendly and soft material for the purpose. Leather has the ability to adjust to one's feet which can add an extra cushion to your feet. Except for leather, canvas is also considered bunion-friendly type of material, which is usually appropriate to be worn during the warmer time of the year. You should avoid shoes that are narrow, tight or pointed, and especially shoes that have heels higher than 2.5cm.

Adding Accessories to Increase your Comfort



Source: shoeaholicsanonymous.com


  • Bunion Pads – For those of you who feel excessive pain when wearing shoes, placing some kind of cushion over the bunion might bring to you some of a relief. This cushion can come in the form of a gel-filled pad, silicone mould, moleskin, or felt. This padding has the purpose to prevent your bunion from rubbing against the shoe which can significantly reduce any type of irritation. Nowadays, you have the chance to buy such pads at any local drugstore or pharmacy.
  • Toe Spacer – Toe spacers also act as a cushion as they are placed between the big toe and the second toe. Usually made of silicone, these pads can help keep your toes in the proper alignment.
  • Orthotics – According to orthopaedic doctors, placing an insert inside your shoes will give your feet a more comfortable position while relieving any pressure on it. Usually, these inserts can be purchased with a prescription from your podiatrist or over the counter from any pharmacy.
  • Arch Support – According to some studies, people with bunions usually have flatter feet and an unstable arch. Luckily, there is a chance for you to buy over the counter arch supports that can help you correct this problem and give your feet a more natural alignment.
  • Thinner Socks - Another thing that can help you with your bunion problem is wearing thinner socks. According to experts, you should completely forget about wearing thick and tight socks as they will put pressure on your bunion and cause even more pain.

Keep in mind that all of these things are designed to help you with your condition and give you some relief. The sad truth is that once you have a bunion, it won't go away unless you have surgery. That's why you need to take all of the precautions in order not to make it bigger. Choosing comfortable and right fitting bunion shoes is the one and only way that can help you feel comfortable while wearing shoes on a daily basis.