Everyday we are asked, can Correct Toes fix bunions? Or how to shrink bunions naturally?
What you should know is that bunions can be prevented if foot shaped shoes are worn from infancy. Bunions can be cured, if they are treated before established bone changes have taken place. Lastly, bunions can be improved or kept from worsening even in advanced cases. In many cases, those referred for surgery can have many of their symptoms relieved through a natural approach to treating bunions.
First, what is a bunion, or hallux abducto valgus?
We must dispel the myth that bunions are hereditary. Bunions are primarily caused by the narrow toe box of traditional shoes. While bunions themselves are not hereditary, certain genetic factors, like having a wider foot with soft tissue flexibility, can influence their development when wearing conventional footwear. So if your foot has been crammed in one of these shoes since birth, yes overtime you will begin to see the effects of this.
What are your options for treating hallux valgus (bunions)?
Surgery is generally a last resort. While severe cases may require it, early intervention can often improve many symptoms associated with hallux valgus. Surgery can come with complications such as
- stiffness,
- numbness
- nerve damage
- recurrence
- swelling
- and delayed healing.
Early detection allows for non-surgical treatment options, potentially reversing the condition. We like to refer you and others to our bunion reversal video on YouTube [bunion reversal exercises] for exercises that can help. From there you will need to evaluate your footwear collection. Most likely your closest is filled with shoes with a narrow toe box. Switch to shoes with a natural foot shape and some wonderful brands we recommend are:
- Lems: Great for everyday wear.
- Altra: Ideal for runners transitioning to natural footwear.
- Vivo: Offers options with thin soles and foot shaped toe boxes.
- Xero: Perfect for high-intensity training.
- Ahinsa: Excellent summer sandal options
Gradually build your collection of proper footwear while focusing on foot health. You can find select shoe models of each brand on our website at: correcttoes.com/shop
In addition, you’ll want to get yourself a pair of Correct Toes toe spacers. While we may slightly be biased on which toe spacers to get, we do know and have proven to show the results of wearing Correct Toes daily as they help more than just improve bunions but other foot health problems.
“But does this really work?”
Yes, it does. Research and physical therapy treatment plans have been created to support bunion improvement through toe realignment. For example, “Treatment of Progressive First Metatarsophalangeal Hallux Valgus Deformity: A Biomechanically Based Muscle-Strengthening Approach” (Journal of Orthopedic & Sports Physical Therapy, 2016) provides valuable insights. You can also find more information through watching our video on YouTube [The Hereditary Bunion Myth] and reading our blog [Hereditary Bunion Myth: What Causes Bunions?].
Key Takeaway:
Bunions often respond well to conservative care, but consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any treatment. We can not stress enough how important foot health and foot care is, and early intervention can make a significant difference as we age. Don’t let foot ailments go unchecked—address them early for better long-term outcomes.
If you’re concerned about any foot problems, not just bunions, call us at (503) 243-2699 or schedule an appointment with one of our doctors [https://www.nwfootankle.com/scheduler/].