Here’s a bit of news you might find surprising: contrary to a popular misconception, women’s shoes do not actually cause bunions. Instead, they are often caused by inherited foot structures. It makes sense to why pumps and stilettos are frequently blamed, though—after all, these kinds of footwear force the toes together in the front and, at the same time, place excessive pressure on the area.
Now, when we think about shoes for bunions, perhaps the best starting point is to consider types you should really avoid. We just noted that footwear cannot cause bunions, but they certainly can cause the deformity to worsen over time more quickly than they otherwise would. The combination of excess pressure and squashed toes contributes to the existing joint imbalance responsible for the condition.
Bunions are considered to be “progressive” deformities. This means they are not reversible—without surgical intervention—and they can worsen if left untreated. Accordingly, it is important to come see us here at Fixing Feet Institute for a bunion treatment plan!
One facet of treatment is making sure you have the best shoes for bunions! Clearly, high-heeled models do not make the list, so which ones do we recommend? There are three things you need to look for in your footwear choices.
Best Shoes for Bunions
- Low heels. We’ve already covered why you should avoid—or at least limit—the pumps and stilettos, but let’s take a moment to consider what to do if you are a professional woman who needs to wear dressy shoes at the office. In cases like this, wear a comfortable, practical pair for your commute, and then change into (and out of) your work shoes when you arrive at (and leave from) the office.
- Wide fronts. When you have a bunion and wear tight footwear, it can cause irritation, redness, and pain. Instead, opt for models that have enough width to accommodate the distinctive bump on the inner edge of your foot.
- Deep toe boxes. Width is a pretty natural consideration, but so too should be height. Basically, you want as much room as possible in both dimensions.
Choosing the right shoes for bunions is just a starting point when it comes to bunion care. Our medical specialists will work with you to create a comprehensive treatment plan. Contact our Surprise, AZ office today by calling (623) 584-5556 or take advantage of our online form!
