Dear Jenn: Bunions from Dancing

Dear Jenn,
I'm getting bunions! I feel like I pad my feet well, but they are still developing. What can I do to prevent them?

This is a popular question we hear a lot and get asked often by dancers. I would first take a look at your pointe shoes. Are they too narrow? Because if they are, then that could be part of your problem. It would be worthwhile to take a look at your street shoes too because too narrow everyday shoes will exacerbate the problem as well.
Unfortunately, many people are simply predisposed to them. Does your mom have a bunion? Grandmother? Roughly 60% of people have the foot type with a long big toe, which makes you bunion prone.
What kind of padding are you using? One of the best things you can do is wear spacers in between your big toe and second toe. This will ease some of the pressure your big toe joint is experiencing and redistribute it to the rest of your foot. You should wear these spacers when you are not dancing as well. We sell in our office bunion sleeves which will help align your foot and again relieve pressure.
If you already have a pronounced bunion, your pointe shoe box should be square and wider to accomodate the bone. However, if the box is too wide, your big toe slips down and jams at the platform. It is best to work with a professional fitter to get the best fit for your foot.
Your street shoes should not be taper-toed or high heels. Round-toe shoes are best with a little bit of a heel. Flats offer no support for arches and should be avoided, along with flip-flops, UGGS, and other low-support shoes. Your podiatrist may prescribe custom-made orthotics to help with the bunion pain. People who tend to pronate in tend to have bunions, so orthotics would help with both issues.
Send your questions to: jenn@centralctfootcare.com
Dancingly,
Jenn
jenn@centralctfootcare.com
Dr. Tina Boucher Dance Podiatrist