Shiloh, IL Podiatrist Discusses Bunions: What That Means For Your Favorite Shoes

Every once in a while, fashionistas must sadly discover what your Shiloh, IL podiatrist, already knows: your favorite shoes may be causing your foot pain.

What Are Bunions?

Bunions, or “hallux valgus” as your Shiloh, IL podiatrist, Dr. Anderson, refers to them, are lumps that jut out from the base of the big toe due to a deformity of the underlying joint. As the joint skews out and away from the foot, the top part of the big toe is forced in towards the other toes. This awkward positioning often causes the already inflamed joint to rub up against the inside of shoes, leading to more swelling, thickened skin and occasionally, a fluid-filled sac called a bursa.

What Causes Bunions? 

Bunions can be genetic or caused by an injury or illness (joints weakened by osteoarthritis, for instance). People with occupations that require them to do a lot of walking and standing are also at risk. The most notable factor though – and possibly the most disappointing – is ill-fitting footwear. Wearing high-heeled shoes, shoes with narrow toe boxes or shoes that are too tight can all cause bunions to develop and the bigger those bunions get, the harder it becomes to wear any kind of shoes at all.

Finding Bunion-Friendly Footwear 

Without at-home treatment or a visit to our podiatry office, bunions can progress into other conditions such as ingrown nails or hammertoes. Luckily, relief can be as simple as swapping out your stilettos in favor of more comfortable alternatives. Opt for shoes that have:

• A roomy toe box that doesn’t rub or press on the side of your foot
• A sturdy upper that cups your heel to keep it snug and secure
• A sole that’s wide, flexible, and supportive

If you just can’t imagine girls’ night out without your favorite heels, you can give your bunions short-term protection in the form of a gel or moleskin pad.

Are bunions keeping you from hitting your stride? Call 618.277.9533 now schedule your visit to our podiatry office. We’re dedicated to helping you conquer your foot and ankle issues so you can get back to what really matters: living a happy, healthy life!

Award-winning O’Fallon, IL Podiatrist for Bunions – Serving Columbia, O’Fallon, Belleville, Smithton, Okawville, Freeburg Mascoutah, Freeburg, Trenton, Waterloo, Millstadt, Hecker, Red Bud, Ruma, Fairview Heights, Shiloh, and Trenton IL