(410) 721-4505
2411 Crofton Lane, Suite 25
Crofton, MD 21114
While the wrong types of shoes may not directly cause bunions, they can be the reason why they become worse. Long-term use of shoes that do not have the proper foot support can lead the bunion becoming larger, stiffer, and more painful.
So what actually causes bunions?
While the exact cause is unknown, it seems that genetics, injuries to the big toe joint, and excessive pressure to the forefoot causes the big toe to begin pointing toward the other toes. The bony spur develops as a response to direct pressure, improper healing, or as a support to the big toe joint.
Then what types of shoes make bunion symptoms worse?
What is the lesson learned? If you have bunions, don’t make them worse with the wrong shoes. Try looking for footwear that is low-heeled, comfortable, roomy for your toes, supportive for your arches, and adjustable throughout the day.
Of course, those with severe bunions already should speak with our podiatrist for the best solution. You may need custom orthotic shoes to fit severely deformed feet. Surgery might even be necessary if bunions really get in the way of your life.
We can help you! Make an appointment by calling (410) 721-4505 to see our board-certified podiatrist, Dr. Brad Toll at Crofton Podiatry. Come to visit our Crofton, MD office, which also serves the surrounding areas of Gambrills, Odenton, and Bowie areas.
There are certain habits that are picked up without realizing it. Picking at scabs, shaking your legs while sitting, saying “like,” and not signaling when you change lanes in your car are all bad habits that you might pick up without consciously trying to do them.
Likewise, there may be some bad habits that you may have picked up regarding your shoes. The following are unconscious actions you might be doing that could be harming your shoe (and therefore your foot and ankle health):
Do you think you might have foot or ankle problems because of bad shoe habits? Make an appointment by calling our office at (410) 721-4505 to consult with our board-certified podiatrist, Dr. Brad Toll at Crofton Podiatry. He can help you with an assessment and treatment if needed. For dedicated care for your feet and ankles, visit our Crofton, MD office, which also serves the surrounding Gambrills, Odenton, and Bowie areas.
Other than in winter, flats, especially ballet flats, are a popular footwear choice for women. They are more comfortable than high heels, but are fashionable and can be appropriate for work attire. What you may not know, though, is that it can be the root of your foot pain problems!
While they are the best option for closed-toed fashion footwear, they still have their problems, such as:
They tend to have narrow toe boxes – For those who have wide feet or have bunions, the front part of the shoes can be constricting. Wearing tight shoes like this can cause or worsen symptoms of bunions, tailor’s bunions, hammertoes, ingrown toenails, and even neuromas. Rather than ballet flats, loafers or boat shoes may be better options.
Limited cushioning – Flats tend to have minimal inner sole cushioning so that the shoes can be dainty and thin. This can increase impact on your joints while walking and cause foot fatigue.
Little or no arch support – Many times, the inner sole is flat to match the shoe shape, which means that there is no support for the arch. This can cause the foot to work harder to stabilize and cause painful symptoms like that of plantar fasciitis.
Little heel support – Footwear should have good heel cupping and cushioning to prevent heel pain and provide stability.
Unsupportive shoe shape and quality – Depending on the quality and materials that they are made with, they can cause irritation to your feet in the form of blisters and cuts.
The following are some ways to improve your flat wearing experience:
When purchasing flats, make sure to try them on. Try walking around in them. If they are cutting into the top of your feet or feel crowded in the toebox, they are not the shoes for you. Your toes should be able to wiggle around a bit, but not enough that your foot slides around in the shoes.
Recently, podiatrists have been working with shoemakers to design comfortable, supportive flats. Look for these types of shoes with supportive features built in.
For flats that do not have adequate cushioning, arch support, or heel support, try using orthotic inserts. You’ll probably be able to walk around in them for longer without foot fatigue.
Try not to wear shoes barefoot. Even sheer, no show socks can help prevent chafing and blisters.
If you are experiencing foot pain after a long day in your shoes, you may want to consider making a change. For persisting problems that cause you pain, consult with our board-certified podiatrist, Dr. Brad Toll at Crofton Podiatry. Make an appointment by calling (410) 721-4505. Our team is ready to assist you and your family at our Crofton, MD office, which also serves the surrounding Gambrills, Odenton, and Bowie areas.
Last week we talked about celebrities having issues with their high heels, and how you can stay safe yet fashionable in your upcoming formal summer events. But high heels weren’t the only thing showing up on the red carpet this year, another source of foot pain appeared in the form of flats. Celebs such as Kate Moss, Victoria Beckham, Dita Von Teese, Taylor Swift, and Emma Watson have been seen recently sporting flat shoes everywhere from the grocery store to the most fashionable gatherings.
While flats may be easy to slip on – the damage the can create with repetitive use may not be so easy to shake off. Shoes with flat and thin soles can cause problems ranging from stubbed toes and cuts, to overuse injuries such as stress fractures and plantar fasciitis. As a seasoned podiatrist in Bowie and Annapolis, it is not uncommon for me to see at least one patient with a flip-flop related injury daily throughout the summer months. Generally speaking, people with flatter arches are more susceptible to overuse injuries because they need more support for their bodies. Flats and flip flops simply don’t provide enough support to absorb the forces of walking.
While excessive use of flats and flip-flops can cause many problems, moderate use is typically handled well, especially if only used periodically in combination with other shoe types. However, if you start to feel problems from your footwear, make an appointment with your local podiatrist. If you’re in the greater Annapolis area, I invite you to drop by my office at Crofton Podiatry. We can talk about the reasons why you’re experiencing issues, and the options available to best relieve your pain. Remember – the best way to enjoy your upcoming summer is on your feet!
By Brad Toll.
2411 Crofton Lane, Suite 25
Crofton, MD 21114