How to Prevent Bunions From Worsening

A bunion is a bony bump near the joint of the big toe that can be painful. It can be caused by wearing tight shoes, sustaining foot injuries, or may be a congenital birth defect. Bunions are permanent but aren't always painful unless the joint becomes inflamed. If you have a bunion, there are several ways you can try to prevent it from worsening.

Instructions

• 1

  Wear comfortable shoes that are wide enough for your foot. Wearing shoes that are too small can cause bunions to worsen.

• 2

  Purchase a shoe insert such as Dr. Scholl's Bunion Cushions, Visco-GEL Bunion Guard, or Pedifix Bunion Relievers. These inserts can help prevent pressure from the shoe that causes bunions to be inflamed.

• 3

  Buy a bunion splint or brace from a store that carries medical supplies. The brace will keep the big toe in place and keep the bunion from worsening.

• 4

  Talk to your doctor about a bunionectomy, which is bunion surgery that can straighten the big toe and remove swollen tissue from around the toe.