I have my mom's and grandma's feet, they both have bunions and I am wondering if this is inevitable for me, too, or if there is something above and beyond "don't wear pointy shoes or heels" that I can do to avoid getting bunions? My grandma grew up on a farm, she's NEVER worn anthing other than comfy flats, so I worry that no matter what shoes I wear, I'll get bunions like hers, too. My mom wore pointy heels until just a few years ago (she's 60) when she sprained her ankle, her bunions are not that bad, but she's concerned that her bunions will get severely worse as she ages.

I'm 32, I had hammertoe surgery in my mid 20s due to foot pain and constant corns and callouses from the hammertoes. I've since been careful to wear comfortable shoes. I do wear heels but they are either open-toed sandals or wide toe boxed boots. Do all heels, even comfy ones, aggravate bunions? Should I stop wearing these? And going back to my first question, what ELSE can I do to avoid bunions?? Thanks in advance. :)

Edit: I forgot to mention that I have minor bunions on both big toes & pinky toes. They've caused callouses, one of which disappeared after my hammertoe surgery (yay!). Any info is most welcome!

Well staying away from bad shoes is a first but I think going to a Podiatrist and having him evaluate how you walk.. it seems from what my POD said that yes it is hereditary but it has to do with how you walk and body mechanics.. you may need to get fitted with orthotics and that will correct the way you walk (if that is an issue) and that will certainly help because as I understand it that is what eventually causes the toe joint to push out which is actually the bunion..
MY 2cents:)

I agree with Teddie's suggestion of orthotics. I know I am getting fitted for them after my foot is completely healed, in order to prevent the bunion from reoccurring. I also think you can get a bunion splint that will keep your foot in it's proper position while you sleep, and keep the tendons from tightening up too much (which worsens a developing bunion).