Wearing the right footwear when you have a bunion (or hallux valgus) is possible. You just have to choose the shoes carefully.
First, remember that bunions are a relatively common problem. In fact, in Canada approximately 38% of women compared to 8% of men have experienced bunions. One of the causes of the onset of bunions is poorly fitting shoes.
But there’s good news! If you have bunions on your feet, you can easily find comfortable footwear. Just follow a few guidelines when choosing your shoes.
Choose proper shoes if you have a bunion
It is important to choose your footwear correctly if you want to avoid any pain related to your hallux valgus. To do so, you have to find the perfect shoe for your foot. Of course, some models are preferable to others.
Need a little assistance to guide you on your shoe shopping spree? Here are a few tips:
- Soft, wide shoes with a slight heel are recommended, as are properly fitting sandals, because they provide a lot of freedom for the feet.
- Shoes with high heels (pumps) are not recommended.
Keep in mind that the key words here are “flexibility” and “comfort.” As well, be aware that there are several models of very feminine shoes, even for women who suffer from foot bunions.
Choose the correct shoe size
The choice of shoe size is also a crucial element to ensure comfort when suffering from hallux valgus. Regardless of which shoe catches your eye, you must make sure that it does not cause any pressure points on your foot and that your toes can move freely.
This can be done by making sure there is enough space in the front of your shoe. Check that the forefoot width is adapted to your body type as well as your bunions.
A little tip: shop at the end of the afternoon. Given that everyone’s feet swell a bit during the day, you will immediately feel at ease when trying on shoes and after buying them. In addition, take the time to remove the insole and place your foot on it. If your foot is larger than the insole, then the shoe is too narrow for your feet.
Adopt good habits with your shoes
Selecting the right footwear when you have a bunion also means developing good habits. In fact, it is essential to vary not only the model, but also the height of the shoes when choosing them. This way, muscle contractures can be avoided. Ideally, it is even a good idea to change shoes every 2 to 3 days (low heels, dress shoes and sports shoes).
It should be remembered that by accustoming our feet to a certain height, we end up making it less flexible. This is why alternating shoe models allows us to maintain a certain flexibility of the foot tendons and avoid any additional pain. It also helps to relieve the foot in the area of a bunion.
CONCLUSION
As mentioned at the beginning of the article, bunions (hallux valgus) are a common condition, especially among women. However, there is no reason they should stop you from wearing the proper footwear.
There is no need to suffer in order to wear shoes that are both elegant and comfortable! Just follow a few simple guidelines:
- Buy comfortable shoes that do not create any pressure points on your feet
- Buy the right size to fit your feet (even if it means saying goodbye to certain styles)
- Ensure you rotate your footwear models on a regular basis
Even with hallux valgus, you still have access to a wide range of shoes! You just have to find them!
And if your bunion continues to make you suffer, consult a podiatrist. Don’t hesitate to find a clinic by consulting PiedRéseau website.