Consider flip flops with arch support

Flip flops may provide bunion pain relief, but lead to other problems.

Flip flops relieve bunion painIndividuals who endure the red, calloused protrusions known as bunions may breathe a sign of relief when flip flop season rolls around, since the flimsy footwear gives the deformity plenty of room and does not compress wide feet into narrow toe boxes.

However, podiatrists warn that they may leave people open to injury since they provide little arch support or protection from the elements.

"Flip flops were made to be worn in the shower, at the beach, or to the pool and not intended to be worn for daily activity as they are now,” said Carolyn McAloon, DPM, quoted by Woman's Day magazine. “They’re not a good choice if you are spending the day on your feet."

She said that if an individual is truly attached to flip flops, they should look for a pair with good arch support and a moderate amount of flexibility in the ball of the foot.

A Washington Post article reports that stress fractures in the metatarsal bone of the foot - where bunions occur - are likely to happen when a person wears flip flops regularly. Additionally, the author said that this type of footwear can lead to plantar fasciitis, also known as fallen arches, which can also cause bunions. 

Individuals who want to correct or prevent bunions or hammer toe may want to consider bunion splints or orthotics, which may help them avoid costly bunion surgery
