You might have dreamed of starting to run by looking at a sports jogger. Friends might have invited you to run many times, but you refused because of the knowledge that your feet hurt a lot after a run. You might not even have sneakers because you think that foot deformities and running are incompatible. The reason might be the wrong shoes, so read this guide to fix the problem.
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Causes and Symptoms of Bursitis
A bunion ranks first among the most common foot problems such as flat feet and weak ankles. One of the most frequent forms of bursitis is a slight increase in the bursa around the big toe. That is the initial curvature stage. If you do nothing at this point, the bunion grows bigger and causes problems while walking and running.
There are various reasons why you can have bunions. It might be a genetic predisposition, injury, or wearing the wrong shoes for a long time.
At first, bunions might feel like a slight discomfort at the base of the big toe. Over time, excessive shoe pressure exacerbates the problem in the big toe area, causing severe pain and even inflammation.
The advanced stage of bunions can lead to the following consequences:
- Your shoes might rub heavily in the area of the protruding bunion. Hence, it causes constant soreness and inflammation.
- To reduce foot pain, you can unintentionally curve your foot, which will cause spinal abnormalities. In this case, the pain will be localized not just in the big toe area but all over the body.
- Another serious consequence of bursitis is the curvature of the thumb. As a result, you can’t fully step on your foot, and you might lose your balance and fall, which results in additional injuries.
How to Choose Running Shoes for Bunions
You are wrong if you hesitate to start running because you think bunion shoes look weird and are hard to get. Well-known athletic shoe brands such as New Balance have models of sneakers suitable for people with bunions. When choosing bunion running shoes, pay attention to the following parameters:
- The material of the sneaker. Since sneakers should not squeeze your foot, avoid models made of too dense material. Pay attention to sneakers made of mesh and other soft fabrics.
- Shoe size. Because of bursitis, you might need shoes that are one size larger so that you don’t squeeze your feet. The feet should have enough space, and the shoes should fit you well.
- Sneakers should have a wide front part. Then the shoes will not chafe in the area of the bone and cause pain.
- Lacing. Pay attention to the lacing or other fasteners so that you have the opportunity to loosen the sneakers or, conversely, fasten them tighter.
- Seams on the sneakers. There should be no seams in the bone area to prevent it from rubbing.
Sometimes, when you try on the shoes you like in a store, you might feel that they are a little too tight. You might think that they are new and you need some time to wear them. That is not an appropriate tactic for people with bunions. If you feel the shoe is even a little tight when you try it on, it’s better to refuse to buy the pair.
Additional accessories for bunions
Bursitis is often not the only problem with feet. The deformity of the big toe can lead to the development of other processes. People with bunions often have flat feet. The right shoes can ease your condition. You can also wear them in combination with some useful accessories.
- Thin socks. Too thick socks can rub your feet while running. Buy thin socks made of natural materials.
- Silicone inlays. Special silicone inlays will further cushion your every step. You will run much easier if you put these pads under your toes.
- Orthopedic insole. If you have flat feet or pronation, your foot is in the wrong position. A special orthopedic insole will repeat the curves of your foot and properly distribute the load. When you run, your foot will be in the proper position, which will prevent you from getting hurt.
- Silicone toe pad. If your big toe is too curved and presses against your second toe, it causes pain, especially while running. You can place a special pad between your thumb and second toe. That will help distribute the foot load and avoid friction between the toes.
These additions will make your shoes as comfortable as possible so that you can run with pleasure.
Bursitis Isn’t a Hindrance to Running
There is a common misconception that bunions can get worse while running. You should know that this will not happen if you run in the right shoes. With the appropriate footwear, you can lead an active life and forget about the pain in your feet.