Banish those bunions!
Wednesday 14 April 2010
Bunion – the word alone is enough to make you feel a bit queasy. These bumps develop on the side of your big or little toe as a result of inappropriate footwear.
Caused by squashing your feet into (probably the most beautiful but uncomfortable) shoes, bunions are not only unsightly but can also be extremely painful.
A person that knows just how much pain bunions can cause is Victoria Beckham - both the images of 'bunioned' feet featured are Posh's. So for the Posh one and yourselves, here is a guide to avoid getting bunions, courtesy of The Clinic for Foot & Ankle Surgery:
1. Wear comfy footwear so your feet don’t feel squished. It’s worth saving those pain-inducing skyscraper heels for special occasions. If you’re suffering from a bunion, go for shoes with a wide toe bed. You can also have your shoes specially stretched to accommodate your bunion.
2. If you simply can’t part with your heels on a day-to-day basis, go for heels with a gradual slope rather than a drop down heel. These heels may be easier on the arch and might help relieve some pain in the ball of the foot. Thicker heels will not only give you better balance but also help relieve some pressure by distributing the weight on your foot more evenly.
3. Opt for open-toe high heels on a night out to relieve pressure on bunions’ relatives, corns and calluses. You could also see a podiatrist to have corns and calluses professionally removed.
4. To prevent bunions becoming worse you could try toe spacers. Made from rubber or silicone gel, toe spacers keep the big toe from trying to cross its way over onto the next toe. Most toe spacers are designed to work while wearing shoes.
5. Finally Fit Flops can be a great option for bunion sufferers. Many people have reported on how comfortable they feel and how they take the stress off that vulnerable toe area. There are also specially designed to accommodate bunions.
Banish those bunions!
By Anisa Kadri