• Commute in comfy shoes. Instead of walking to work in heels, channel Melanie Griffith in Working Girl and commute in cute sneakers, then change into your heels at the office. "If you have a desk job and only walk to get a coffee or use the printer, wearing heels in the office isn't going to worsen your bunions," says Dr. Miltchin.
• Buy custom orthotics. Like your eyes, no two feet are identical, so buying off-the-shelf orthotics may not prevent bunions. "The success rate for an off-the-shelf orthotic is low because it's not formed to your foot," says Dr. Miltchin. While custom orthotics aren't cheap (most range from $500 to $700), they will last many years. Though no orthotics will fit in every pair of shoes you own, they will fit in most – including sneakers, golf shoes, low heels and flats. Tip: Bring your orthotics with you when trying on new shoes to make sure they fit.
• Switch up your exercise regime. "Running is one of the worst exercises – not only for your feet, but also for your knee and hip joints," says Dr. Miltchin. If you're a runner, try alternating running days with a low-impact sport such as biking, swimming, speed walking, yoga or Pilates. When you run, wear an orthotic that will absorb the shock of impact your feet would otherwise take.
• Minimize the pain. If your bunion is already causing you pain when you're wearing shoes, you can apply bunion cushions before slipping into your shoes to relieve friction and pressure. In the evening, apply an ice pack to reduce inflammation. Once a bunion becomes too painful to bear, unsightly or prevents you from wearing shoes you love, ask your podiatrist about minimal incision bunion surgery.
Read more:
• Exercises for high-heel wearers
• What you should know about podiatry
• 7 steps to happy feet
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