Bunion Prevention Tips: How To Avoid Bunion Development

A bunion, which develops slowly, refers to a bony protrusion when the big toe pushes against the second toe. Bunions eventually cause discomfort and will likely limit the shoes you can wear. If you live/work/play in and around Pearland or Houston, TX, Dr. Mark Moss of Coastal Foot & Ankle Associates can provide expert care for this condition.

How To Avoid Bunion Development

The first step in successfully preventing bunions is to determine any or all the factors that may contribute to their development. However, taking action in the early stages of bunion development can significantly increase your chances of preventing the condition from worsening.

While an inherent structural imbalance is often at the root issue of a bunion development, other factors may also play a significant role –

• Hereditary Factors.
• Having a low arch.
• Repetitive stress injuries.
• Excessive movement of the big toe bone.
• Overuse injuries.
• Inflammation from arthritis.
• Conditions affecting both the nerves and muscles.
• Improper fetal foot development.

Preventing and Managing Bunions

Preventing the development of bunions begins with selecting shoes that are comfortable for your feet. This usually means the toe box is sufficiently wide (i.e., no high heels or unnaturally pointy shoes), so there is no pressure on your toes. Additional guidance includes -

• Choose Shoe Padding/Cushions.
  Padded cushions and over-the-counter shoe/foot orthotics often help redistribute pressure from the bunion area. Non-medicated bunion splints/pads may also help alleviate symptoms.
• Keep Your Weight at Recommended Levels.
  Keeping your weight at the recommended guidelines reduces your risk of developing new and aggravating existing bunions, among other conditions.
• Be Consistent with Exercises and Stretching.
  Various stretches/exercises can help improve flexibility can help strengthen your foot and improve flexibility. For example, practice using your toes to pick up marbles.
• Be Smart About the Activities and Sports You Choose.
  Engaging in high-impact activities and sports can create excessive stress in areas that may contribute to the development of bunions.
• Modify Footwear as Needed.
  If a bunion has begun, it is likely that you will need to modify the shoes you need.

In certain circumstances, bunion surgery may be the most suitable option to correct severe cases that do not respond to conservative approaches.

Contact a Leading Houston, TX Podiatrist for Bunion Prevention Strategies

If you have a family history or other foot problems, it is a smart idea to have routine checkups with a podiatrist to ensure you identify/address issues as early as possible.

If you are experiencing bunion discomfort/pain, contact Dr. Moss or a team member of Coastal Foot & Ankle Associates at (281) 484-2400 (Houston), (281) 485-2988 (Pearland), or online.