Dear Katie: I Have The World's Ugliest Bunions!

In our “Dear Katie” series, former NYCB soloist Kathryn Morgan answers your pressing dance questions. Have something you want to ask Katie? Email [email protected] for a chance to be featured!

Dear Katie,

I have the world’s ugliest bunions. They make pointework incredibly painful! Is there anything I can do to make them go away? And if not, what’s the best way to cope?

Angelina

Dear Angelina,

Ugh—I know from experience how painful bunions can be. The most important thing is to make sure your pointe shoes fit. Shoes that are too small or too big can irritate bunions, so getting refitted is a good idea.

That said, bunions usually begin to form because of the way your toes are squeezed in your shoes—even shoes that fit properly. While you’re dancing, try using toe spacers between your first and second toes to counteract some of that pressure. At night, wear five-toed pedicure spacers while you’re watching TV or doing your homework to stretch out your feet. (Even if you don’t have bunions, they feel so good.)

Take bunions seriously, because severe ones can be crippling. If the problem continues or worsens, talk to a podiatrist.