Preventing Bunions

Dealing with pain from a bunion is less than ideal, but it shouldn't keep you from the activities you love. Symptoms you may be experiencing from bunion pain are often from a protruding bump located by the base of your big toe. Luckily, managing and preventing future bunion pain is possible with our team of experts at Idaho Foot and Ankle Associates in Boise, Nampa, and Meridian, ID.

Avoiding Bunion Pain

Bunions are more common than you may think, and there are a few reasons why you are prone to developing bunions; it can be genetic or based on your lifestyle that potentially prohibited proper growth. However, it's entirely possible to reduce your chances of bunions in your future with the following tips:

• By wearing appropriate footwear, you're relieving any pressure that can cause your feet to swell or that's stressing the joint of your big toe. You'll know you're wearing the best-fitted shoes when there's good arch support, a wide toe box, and the fit is slightly looser. Though slip-on shoes are more convenient, your foot slides forward with each step, so, we suggest wearing shoes with laces.
• When wearing new shoes, they shouldn't require a break-in period. Instead, new shoes should be comfortable from the get-go, which can be achieved by walking around the store for a bit to ensure proper fit.
• It's best to look for new shoes later in the day since you've likely been on your feet for most of the day. Shopping for shoes in the evening is ideal since your feet often swell throughout the day and even more so depending on the duration.
• Wearing high heels is still an option, however, it's best to avoid wearing stilettos since they put more pressure on the balls of your feet. Heels that balance weight relatively evenly are wedges, platforms, or any chunky heeled shoe.
• For those who are flat-footed, you may consider investing in inserts for your shoes, which can be provided over-the-counter. If store-bought shoe inserts don't seem to be working, our team of podiatrists in Boise, Nampa, and Meridian, ID, with Idaho Foot and Ankle Associates, can help you prevent bunions and find the best inserts for your condition.
• Maintaining a healthy weight may help alleviate any pressure put on the joint of your big toe, which will also reduce inflammation or soreness.
• We encourage considerable care of your feet, especially when feeling extra worn or achy. On harder days, soaking your feet in warm water with Epsom salt, followed by a moisturizing cream, will provide great relief. Elevating your feet and providing proper rest will lead to a better condition of your feet and reduce the likeliness of experiencing bunions.

Don't let bunions keep you from enjoying activities you love the most and visit with our professionals at Idaho Foot and Ankle Associates in Boise, Nampa, and Meridian, ID. Book an appointment today by calling one of our three convenient locations:

• Boise—(208) 327-0627
• Nampa—(208) 463-1660
• Meridian—(208) 888-9876