Many people are suffering from bunions that can be caused by different reasons. So, it is extremely important to choose proper footwear that won’t make this problem even worse, but will help you to feel better. So, in this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about bunions. A bunion is a bony and painful hump near the joint of the big toe. It happens because the big toe leans slightly toward other toes. When you have a bunion all your body weight rests on this joints every time you walk and it can cause discomfort and pain. Uncomfortable footwear can make you feel even worse because it will rub this area.
Symptoms of Bunions
There are some symptoms that will help you to spot if you have bunions or not:
- Bony bump
- Big toe heads in the opposite direction
- Swelling near the big toe joint
- You can feel pain in the big toe
- The movement of the big toe is restricted
- Calluses
- You have problems with finding fitting shoes
- Pressure and pain in the joint during walking
- Arthritis
Causes of Bunions
Unsuitable Footwear
The first reason why bunions may worry you is poorly fitting footwear. It can make your condition much worse and bring a lot of pain. Also, tight shoes will rub this joint and cause corns in this area. High heeled shoes are your worst enemy if you have this problem. Such shoes push your weight exactly on the toe area of the foot and make major strain on the joint. In addition, avoid footwear with a pointy toe.
Genetics
If somebody from your family has bunions probably you will face with this problem too. The chance that you will have the same condition is high, but this may not happen as well.
Arthritis
People who suffer from arthritis may suffer from bunions too. Some type arthritis (psoriatic, gout and rheumatoid) cause deformity of the joint and lead to the emergence of bunions.
Other Conditions
To other condition that may lead to bunions we can relate stretchy joints, low muscle tone, and loose ligaments. Learn more how to cure plantar fasciitis without surgical intervention(ebook).
Types of Bunions
Tailor’s Bunion
This type of bunion happens near the area of pinky. It can be caused by genetics or wrong pair of shoes. Sometimes people may have 2 bunions on the same foot but it’s uncommon.
Acute Bunions
Such type of bunions is always painful. It includes inflammations of the joint and makes all movement aching. These inflammations cause the hardened skin to come closer to the affected toes.
Hallux Valgus
This type of bunion is always caused by the specific structure of the foot and always painless. Those people who have hallux valgus may suffer from early arthritis.
Best Shoes for People with Bunions
Mary Jane Shoes
Classic Mary Jane pumps have roomy toe box and a small stable heel. It is a perfect combination for women who suffer from bunions. Not only are they comfortable and suitable for various occasions, but fashionable as well. So wearing such pumps you won’t sacrifice style to comfort.
Clogs
Clogs are mostly worn by nurses because they spend a lot of time standing or walking during their working day. Such footwear is made for comfort and decent support.
Rocker Bottom Shoes
These shoes take the weight away from the toes and the front part of the foot. So it is a perfect choice if you are suffering from pain, swelling, and redness in your joint.
Stretch Shoes
Such footwear is made of special material that will stretch after some time of wearing, adjusting to the shape of your foot and giving extra space for special insoles required for treatment of bunions.
Tips for Buying a Proper Pair of Shoes
- Find footwear that will suit to the type of activity you are planning to do wearing them.
- You have to be sure that you have exactly bunions but not some blisters or corns.
- Proper shoes should have roomy toe box and stretchy upper part.
- You should find a model that will fix securely on your feet and it will help to avoid sliding forward.
- And if you don’t want to spend money on the new pair of shoes, try to upgrade the one you have, using special gel pads of the padded footbed.
We have selected top 10 shoes for women who suffer from bunions.
Dr. Comfort Marla Women’s Therapeutic Extra Depth Shoes
These casual shoes from Dr. Comfort are the perfect choice for everyday wearing when you have problems with bunions. They have a simple design that can be combined with various outfits. This model feature lightweight materials that are easy to wash and care for. The upper part is made of a stretchable synthetic material that will make enough room for your feet. Shoes have removable insoles, in case you want to change them for some special inserts. IN addition, adjustable Velcro strap help to make a perfect fitting for any type of foot.
Arcopedico L2
These loafers have all, that people with bunions need. Shoes feature supportive and flexible sole with traction and 1.5 inches (3.81 cm) heel. The upper part is made of spandex which can stretch as much as it needed. The insoles have great cushioning for extra comfort. The padded top line is very convenient because it will prevent irritation of the toes. By the way, insoles are removable. All used materials are of a high quality and this pair of shoes will serve you for a long time.
RYKA Dash Women’s Walking Shoes
Ryka walking shoes are a great option for women who prefer an active lifestyle. They will allow you to move with comfort not only in the city streets but during your training in the gym as well. Shoes have a special arch support system that offers great stability. This footwear provides a secure fit, roomy toe box, padded insoles, leather upper and all day comfort. Model is available in 11 different colors.
Skechers Women’s Pureflex Slip-On Flat
Brand Skechers is famous for its quality, durable and of course comfortable footwear. And of course, they can offer some options for women with bunions. This is perfect flats for those who suffer from this problem. The upper part is made of soft woven strips in combination with textile material for breathability and lightweight comfort. Shoes feature memory foam insoles that will conform to the shape of your feet. Hard but flexible sole offers stability and support.
Clarks Women’s Haydn Shipper Flat
Slip-on shoes from Clarks are made of soft and durable leather that will be adjusted after a few times of wearing. Footwear features specially cushioned footbed with ortholite technology for extra comfort and support. The soles have shock absorbing features and great traction. The height of the heel is about 1 inch to provide you with stability. Insoles in these shoes can’t be removed, but they are good enough even for women with bunions to keep them.
Orthofeet Springfield Women’s Stretchable Orthopedic Shoes
These Mary Jane pumps feature adjustable Velcro strap, sturdy bottoms, and stretchy upper part. The shoes are wide enough to keep your foot in natural position and avoid rubbing of bunions. Cushioned insoles provide great stability and support and relieve stress from joints.
Model is available in 3 colors and can be paired with different clothes in your wardrobe. Shoes are great for any occasion like work, walk, date and many others.
Saucony ProGrid Integrity ST2 Women’s Walking Shoes
Probably, this model is the best solution for feet with bunions. These shoes are made with usage of guilty full grain leather, which guarantees great ventilation and soft comfort. Rubber sole has special construction to provide grip on any surface. Soles also absorb shock and offer stability and arch support. Shoes as well have padded insoles, collar, and tongue. All materials are very durable and will last for a long time. For a snug and secure fit, sneakers feature laces. Available in 3 colors.
Propet Olivia
Slip-ons from Propet will be a good choice for women with bunions as well as women with wide feet. They have a nice wide width to give extra room for problem areas. Nothing will irritate joints and cause pain and discomfort. Convenient construction of the shoes with adjustable Velcro strap at the upper will suit any type of feet. The insoles are removable like in other reviewed models.
New Balance W1340v2 Optimum Control Women’s Running Shoes
Here are another great walking shoes in our selection. The upper part is made of breathable synthetic material and feature laces for a snug fit. Padded tongue, collar, and insoles are made for prolonged comfort. The sturdy bottom is flexible enough to give you freedom of actions and at the same time provide support, stability and shock impact. Supportive insoles can be removed if needed.
Orthofeet Wichita Stretchable Women’s Orthopedic Shoes
These orthopedic shoes are made for lasting comfort. They feature adjustable Velcro strap, elastic upper part and a soft layer of foamed insoles. Shoes will relieve pressure from toes, dividing the weight of the body properly to let you move without discomfort and pain.
I am 45 years old and I have bunions, because of which it is difficult to choose a comfortable pair of shoes. I have been recommended to buy Dr. Comfort Marla shoes with the theraupetic effect and I can say that they are really great. They look casual and can be worn with jeans. I like my choice because they are designed specially for those who have such problems as me. The material is of the highest quality and the price is pretty good.
Ryka Dash women’s shoes is the best shoes for my legs. I have got this pair several months ago. They have a special arch support, which provides a great comfort. I like wearing them because they aren’t only comfortable but also stylish being made of the top-notch quality material. It has a leather upper with fabric, which looks very nice.