Shoes for bunions and hammer toes

Bunions and hammertoes are two common foot problems that can cause pain and difficulty finding comfortable shoes. In this article, we'll explore the best footwear options for those with these conditions, so you can walk and stand comfortably.

Introduction to Hallux Valgus and Hammer Toe

Hallux valgus is a condition in which the big toe moves toward the other toes, forming a bony prominence on the medial side of the foot. It is a very common pathology, affecting approximately 23% of adults. The main causes are genetic predisposition, the use of tight shoes with high heels and a first metatarsal valgus.

The most common symptoms are:

• Pain and redness on the medial side of the foot
• Difficulty finding comfortable shoes
• Formation of calluses and corns
• Deviation of the big toe towards the other toes
• Restriction of movement

To diagnose hallux valgus, the doctor will perform an orthopedic examination, evaluating the mobility of the big toe and the presence of calluses. X-rays of the foot may also be requested to evaluate the angle between the first metatarsal and phalanx.

Hammertoe is a deformity that affects the toes, except the thumb. The tip of the toe bends downward to form a hook-like curve, which can cause redness and pain. This condition mostly affects the second toe, but can also affect the other toes.

The main causes are:

• Tight or too short shoes that crush your toes
• Weak lower limb muscles
• Stiff joints or arthritis
• Traumas or fractures not treated properly

Symptoms of hammer toe are:

• Pain and redness on the tip of the finger
• Formation of calluses
• Difficulty moving your finger or finding comfortable shoes
• Altered posture and difficulty walking

For the diagnosis, the doctor will evaluate the appearance of the finger and its mobility, as well as analyze any x-rays to exclude fractures or other pathologies.

For both bunions and hammertoes, choosing the right footwear is essential to prevent worsening of symptoms and walking without pain. So let's see which shoes are best suited for these common foot conditions.

What shoes to wear with hammertoes?

For those who suffer from hammer toes , it is essential to choose shoes with a wide and high toe box, which do not crush the already deformed toes. Here are some suggestions:

• Shoes with a wide, open toe , which give enough space to the toes without compressing them. Models with a square toe are optimal.
• Shoes with a soft front , not stiff or too tight. Prefer materials such as leather, nubuck or suede.
• Low or completely flat heels , avoiding high heels which worsen the condition by pushing the toes forward.
• Shoes without straps or laces , which can create pressure points on the top of the foot. Slip-on or Velcro models are best.
• For women, toeless shoes like ballet flats, clogs, and mules are ideal for avoiding compression on sore toes.
• A custom orthotic can also help redistribute weight and relieve pressure on hammer toes. Seek the advice of a podiatrist.

So, go for comfortable shoes that fit well and allow your toes to move freely without rubbing. High heels and tight, rigid shoes should be avoided.

What shoes are good for someone with bunions?

For hallux valgus it is important to find shoes that do not cause rubbing or compression on the painful bony prominence. Let's see what the ideal characteristics are:

• Wide and high toe , which avoids compression on the deviated big toe. Better if square or rounded.
• Upper in soft materials , to avoid pressure points on the back of the foot. Excellent leather, suede, nubuck.
• Padded insole , which provides cushioning and does not rub on the painful bony prominence.
• Rigid buttress , which immobilizes the hallux valgus, avoiding worsening of the deviation.
• Low, wide heels , ideally those under 4 centimetres, to better distribute weight.
• Ergonomic shape that follows the natural physiognomy of the foot, without constricting.
• Closed shoes with laces , to keep the foot stable and prevent rubbing.
• Specific insoles or insoles for hallux valgus , which redistribute the load.

Therefore, opt for comfortable shoes of the right size, avoiding high heels and narrow toes that would worsen the hallux valgus. A podiatrist can recommend very useful customized insoles.

How to fix hammer toe?

If the symptoms are mild, the first thing to do to correct a hammer toe is to wear suitable footwear, with a wide and soft front that does not compress the deformed toe. But there are also other useful measures:

• Stretching exercises, to improve finger mobility and prevent contractures. Yoga and daily stretching are very helpful.
• Muscle strengthening, through calf and foot toning exercises, to give more stability to the toes.
• Use of custom-made orthopedic insoles or insoles, which better distribute the load and reduce pressure on the deformed toe.
• Cushioned pads, to be applied between the toes to reduce rubbing and pain.
• Bandages or taping, to keep the finger in the correct position and prevent the progression of the deformity.
• In more severe cases, treatments such as iontophoresis, shock waves or hyaluronic acid injection may be used to reduce inflammation and pain.
• As a last resort, surgery can correct the hammertoe joint by realigning the finger.

By acting promptly with the appropriate footwear and treatments, it is possible to improve the symptoms and prevent hammertoe from getting worse.

What slippers should I use for hallux valgus?

Slippers are comfortable open shoes that are ideal for those who suffer from hallux valgus, if chosen with the right characteristics:

• Flip-flops or slippers with adjustable straps , which help keep the foot firm and stable, avoiding rubbing on the big toe.
• Slippers with a soft internal toe , which avoids painful compression on the bony prominence of the big toe.
• Sole with arch support and high arches , to correctly support the arch of the foot and distribute weight.
• Custom-made orthopedic slippers , made by a podiatrist with a special toe protector for hallux valgus.
• Soft material like cork, avoiding plastic or rubber that irritate the skin.
• Better if closed at the back , for a more stable and secure fit.
• Slippers with adjustable straps or heel straps , for a customized fit.

You should absolutely avoid slippers with flip-flops between the toes, which worsen the bunion, or loose and too soft models that do not stabilize the foot. With the right slippers, you can lighten the load on the bunion even in the summer!

Why do my toes become hammer toes?

There are several causes that can lead to the toes taking on the characteristic hammer shape:

• Wearing shoes that are too tight , especially closed-toe and high-heeled, is the main reason. The constant compression changes the alignment of the toes.
• The presence of a metatarsus adductus , or an inward deviation of the forefoot, can cause the lateral toes to be squashed.
• Arthritis and other degenerative diseases that affect the finger joints, leading to stiffness and hammertoe.
• Direct trauma to the fingers, such as fractures or dislocations, if not treated properly can develop into hammer toe.
• Weakness in the intrinsic muscles of the foot and laxity of the ligaments contribute to the deformity.
• Genetic and congenital factors that can predispose to the development of hammer toes.
• Diabetes and other metabolic diseases that cause neuropathic damage and poor circulation in the feet.
• Aging and the natural wear and tear of joints over the years.

Always choosing shoes of the right shape and size, avoiding high heels and narrow models, is the main way to prevent this painful foot condition.

Socks for Bunion: The Importance of Comfort and Support

Wearing the right socks can make a big difference for bunion sufferers. Here’s what you should look for when choosing socks:

Breathable Material: Choosing socks made of breathable natural materials such as cotton or wool can help prevent excess sweat and the growth of fungi or bacteria that can worsen the condition of bunions. Some socks are also made with special antibacterial fibers to keep your feet dry and clean.

Toe Space: Bunions cause a bony prominence that can cause chafing with socks. Choosing socks with enough room for your toes can help prevent this irritation. There are bunion socks that have a larger dedicated area for the thumb.

Pads: Some socks come with gel or silicone pads in the big toe area to provide an extra level of comfort and prevent pressure or rubbing on the bunion.

Graduated Compression: Graduated compression socks can help improve circulation in the foot and reduce swelling, both of which can help relieve bunion pain. It's important to make sure the compression isn't too strong to avoid making your symptoms worse.

In conclusion, the choice of socks is as important as the choice of shoes for those suffering from bunions. A comfortable, breathable sock with the right compression can make a big difference in the daily comfort and treatment of this condition.

To learn more about socks for bunions, you can read this article .

Conclusion: The ideal shoes for bunions and hammer toes

In conclusion, to choose the ideal shoes in case of hallux valgus or hammer toe it is best to focus on comfortable and anatomical models, with these characteristics:

• Wide, high and soft tip
• Upper in flexible material
• Padded insole
• Sole with arch support
• Ergonomic shape
• Low and wide heels
• No compression on the toes or big toe

In addition to choosing the right footwear, it is useful to consult a podiatrist to evaluate the use of specific insoles or insoles. With the right precautions, it is possible to walk without pain even when living with hallux valgus and hammer toes!