Mt. Vernon, IL (October 22, 2021) – Experiencing foot pain while you’re on the move? This may be a sign of a bunion – a painful, bony bump that forms on the outside of the big toe.

“Bunions can develop for various reasons, but they are caused when the big toe begins leaning at an angle toward the other toes creating a bump,” said Dr. Asim Qureshi, Board-Certified Podiatrist with offices in Marion and Mt. Vernon.

Here are some signs that the pain you’re feeling may be more severe than an uncomfortable pair of shoes.

Symptoms of a bunion:

• Pain, stiffness. or burning when trying to bend the big toe
• Thick or callused skin under the big toe
• Difficulty wearing your regular shoes

Qureshi said, “Bunions can form slowly over time, so it’s best to take care of your feet now to avoid severe discomfort in the future or to stop the issue from worsening.”

These are some simple steps you can take to manage bunions.

Wear the proper footwear. Ill-fitting shoes can make bunions worse and cause extreme discomfort. Try to avoid wearing high heels or shoes that fit tight in the toe area because the pressure can irritate bunions. You can purchase tools to stretch out your shoes to make them more comfortable and give your toes more room.

Make your shoes as comfortable as possible. Even after selecting a well-fitting shoe, there are additional precautions you can take to manage or avoid bunions. Shoe inserts are easy to find at the drug store and can add extra arch support. There are also bunion covers you can stick to your big toe to prevent it from rubbing against the shoe and becoming irritated.

Give your feet a break. After being on your feet in uncomfortable shoes all day, take the time to relax and give your feet some TLC. Soaking them in warm water, elevating them when you’re sitting down, and massaging them are great ways to soothe your feet and reduce inflammation.

Maintain a healthy weight. Keeping yourself in shape and healthy will reduce the pressure on your feet and joints. Taking care of your body will reduce the stress on your feet and lower your risk of developing bunions.

While these are great ways to avoid or slow the development of bunions, there is a higher risk of bunions associated with arthritis and some genetic factors, such as having flat feet. There is no way to cure a bunion without surgery. If you have been experiencing foot pain, don’t let it interrupt your daily life. Consult a podiatrist to discuss the best treatment options for you.