(HealthDay News) -- A bunion is a sore, swollen bump on the foot at the joint of the big toe. It can be very sore and painful, and may require surgery to remove.
Here are suggestions to prevent a bunion, courtesy of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons:
- Never try to force your foot into a shoe that doesn't fit well, or is too tight.
- Wear soft-soled shoes with wide insteps and ample space for the toes.
- Don't wear any heels higher than 2 1/4 inches.
- Avoid pointy-toed shoes.
- Wear cushioned pads in your shoes to prevent a bunion, and also to ease the pain of a bunion that has already formed.
