By Center for Podiatric Medicine
January 19, 2016
Category: Foot Health
Tags: bunions
Do you have bunions? Are you worried that your love of high heels might be to blame? While high heels can offer wonderful benefits for a woman's appearance, it is no secret that they are widely associated with foot pain, certain medical conditions such as bunions and extra trips to The Center for Podiatric Medicine in River North, IL as well.
Do High Heels Cause Bunions?
The good news is that high heels do not cause bunions--at least not directly. Instead, bunions are more likely caused by genetics or a poor gait--not shoe choice. This is why not everyone who wears high heels gets bunions and not everyone who gets bunions wears high heels. Other factors are at play.
Are High Heels Safe?
The bad news, however, is that while high heels don't directly cause bunions, they don't help either. In fact, if you are already at an increased risk for developing bunions, constantly wearing high heels that are too tight or poorly shaped may still increase your chances of bunions and other foot conditions that can send you to The Center for Podiatric Medicine in River North for treatment.
How Can I Avoid Getting Bunions?
While you cannot choose your genetic predispositions, you can make lifestyle and footwear choices that will help reduce your odds of developing bunions. For example, you will likely want to choose shoes with a low heel and a roomy toe box that fit securely without being snug. If you do continue to wear high heels, keep their use to a minimum and be sure to alternate them with shoes that let your feet expand as needed, such as sandals.
If you have flat feet or other conditions which affect your gate, you may want to look into special shoes or custom orthotics to keep your gait natural and pain-free.
Lastly, if you think you may be at an increased risk for developing bunions or if you are starting to develop them already, schedule an appointment at The Center for Podiatric Medicine in River North, IL as soon as possible. The sooner you seek treatment, the less severe your bunions are likely to be, and the easier the treatment should be.
