Because bunions develop slowly, taking care of your feet during childhood and early adulthood can pay off later in life. Keep track of the shape of your feet as they develop over time, especially if foot problems run in your family.

Here are some tips to keep your feet healthy and to help you to avoid developing bunions and other foot problems:

• Exercise your feet. Exercising your feet can strengthen them and help to prevent foot problems. Try these stretching exercises for your feet and watch the video for instructions.
• Exercise your toes. People often forget that their toes need exercise just like the rest of their body. Learn to pick up small objects with your toes and do other types of toe exercises to help strengthen the toes and prevent toe and foot problems. Try this list of toe exercises. Several of the listed exercises are recommended for patients suffering from bunions and other deformities.
• Wear shoes that fit properly and that do not cramp or pinch your toes. Women should avoid shoes with high heels or pointed toes.Check out our page on the Proper Shoe Selection for Foot Health for more information.