Shoe shopping can be a time-consuming and exhausting activity if you’re not sure what exactly you are looking for. Walking into a shoe store only to be met with too many options and pushy salespeople can make the experience overwhelming as well. However, shoes are extremely important for your daily activity and foot health, so taking the time to educate yourself on the type of shoe that your individual foot needs can be beneficial and prevent foot and ankle problems.
A bunion is a common foot condition that affects many people, especially women. It typically manifests as a bony bump on the side of the big toe joint and can cause the toes to bend outwards toward the pinky toes. Repeated pressure can gradually worsen the condition and cause discomfort and pain, so early intervention is important. One way to prevent worsening is to buy shoes that fit properly and prevent unnecessary pressure.
Look for the following qualities:
- Wide toe boxes – Having enough room in the toe area will prevent pressure on the enlarged joint.
- Flexible material – A breathable material like mesh or canvas can offer more flexibility to accommodate your bunion.
- Larger size – A half size up can create space for your bunion as well as custom orthotics or other inserts.
If you suspect a bunion or experience any foot or ankle pain, always consult a board-certified podiatrist who can help assess your individual foot condition. Podiatrists may recommend creating custom orthotics for correcting abnormal foot mechanics, physical therapy, stretches, or reconstructive surgery for cases that do not respond to conservative methods.
A foot care specialist like Dr. Russell Samofal of Podiatry Center of New Jersey regularly diagnoses and treats a variety of foot and ankle conditions, such as plantar fasciitis, bunions, sports injuries, fungal infections, arthritis, and diabetic foot problems. Please contact our Wayne office at (973) 925-4111 for more information or to schedule an appointment!
