Put your best foot forward

Viv Magazine —July 8, 2010

Whether you’re vacationing at the beach or relaxing by the pool, bare feet are almost an inevitable part of summer. Here’s some expert advice for dealing with common foot problems so you can enjoy sandal season.

BUNIONS

• The fault: A bunion is a bony protrusion at the base of the big toe that can become painful, red and swollen.
• The fix: Apply ice and wear special bunion pads (available at drugstores). Custom shoe inserts called orthotics ($200 or more a pair) can help prevent worsening of the bunion, says Rock Positano, D.P.M., director of the Non-surgical Foot and Ankle Service at Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City. Drugstore shoe inserts, such as Dr. Scholl’s Custom Fit Orthotics ($50), are considerably less expensive and may also provide relief. If these measures don’t help, you may be a candidate for joint injections. A last option is corrective surgery.