Best Shoes for Bunions | Foot Solutions Richmond

What is a Bunion?

Not a Growth – But a Big Toe Out of Alignment

A bunion is a bony protrusion of the big toe joint that causes friction and pain when wearing tight shoes. If the big toe looks distorted and protrudes from the side of the foot, it may be a symptom of a bunion. Many people think that the protrusion is a ‘growth’, but in most cases it’s where the big toe joint has been forced out of alignment, so that the base of the bone sticks out to the side. Whilst certain foot types are more likely to develop bunions, the condition is exacerbated by wearing shoes with narrow toe boxes. Bunions mainly affect women due to continued wearing of inappropriate footwear like high heels..

Other symptoms include:

Inflammation of the affected toe joint and surrounding area
Swollen feet and toe joint area
Soreness on the side surface of the big toe
Discomfort or pain when walking

If left untreated, a bunion can result in the big toe resting under or over the second toe, leading to a condition called overlapping toes.

Another type of bunion some people experience is a Tailor’s Bunion, also known as a Bunionette. A Bunionette forms on the outside of the foot towards the joint at the little toe. It is a smaller bump that forms due to the little toe moving inwards towards the big toe.

The Causes

Bunions are a common problem experienced mostly by women. They can develop from an abnormality in the foot or from arthritis, but are usually the result of wearing constrictive ill-fitting footwear. Tight, narrow dress shoes with pointed toe boxes can cause the foot to begin to take the shape of the shoe, leading to the development of a bunion. In some circumstances, pointed-toe shoes and boots can cause the bunion to worsen to an extent where surgery is necessary.

Treatment and Prevention at Foot Solutions, Richmond

The most frequent questions we get asked are:

What is the best way to treat bunions naturally?
How can I prevent bunions getting worse?
What are the best shoes for bunions?

The best way to alleviate bunion discomfort is to wear well-constructed, properly fitted footwear. Shoes with high and wide toe boxes are recommended. Foot Solutions’ custom arch supports are also recommended as they provide extra comfort, support, and protection and can help prevent bunion development.

Foot Solutions stock a wide range of comfortable, well-made, stylish shoes which are designed to maximise comfort and mobility. Call in store and check out our collections of men’s and women’s footwear for all occasions. We also carry shoes with stretchable leather to help relieve pressure.

In the early stages of the formation of a bunion, soaking feet in warm water can provide temporary relief. Other non-surgical treatments include:

Bunion Shields
Bunion Night Splints

These treatments can limit the progression of the bunion formation, relieve pain and provide a healthy environment for the foot. Our qualified staff would be delighted to advise you on these products.