My Grandmother had the ugliest feet on earth. Between bunions and hammertoes, corns and warts, she had every ailment known to the foot. Every new pair of shoes had to be stretched and cut to accommodate the outsized bones protruding in all directions. Everywhere we went, her feet would get a look and she was constantly complaining of her oh so ache feet. As I slip on my red high heels, I can't help but wonder if my feet will grow into an ugly mess like grandma's. There is already a bump growing by my big toe! How long will it be until I am trading in my sexy high heels for grandma's cut up canvas?

Unfortunately, genetics does play a role in your foot structure. Some ladies can run around in high heels there whole life and never complain of any major foot deformities. Many of us are not that lucky. There have been several studies that have linked bunions and other deformities to genes but they also showed that shoes and activities play a major role in your foot problems. My grandma worked on her feet all her life in fancy shoes that did not accommodate her genetic predispositions and therefore, her feet turned into a disaster. I have a good chance of inheriting the ugly disaster if I do not take the proper steps to protect my feet. Like all medical conditions, prevention is the best medicine. It is important to make sure you are wearing the proper shoe gear for your foot type and your activities. Most people where their shoes too small and this can severely aggravate foot conditions. Some shoes are great for some deformities but horrible for other problems. For example, Clogs are good at relieving pain caused by some achilles tendon problems, but clogs severely aggravate hammertoes. Make sure you are being properly fit for your shoes and consult your podiatric physician to learn about shoes that are best for your foot type Unfortunately, it will be suggested to wear high heels in moderation since they aggravate almost every ailment.

Don't stop with shoes! You can also prevent foot problems by some exercising and stretching. Doing a few stretches daily can save your foot from surgery. Your podiatric physician can best asses your foot issues and inform you of the best stretches and resources. It is important to take these conservative steps first and pay close attention to the changes that your feet are making. Even if you already are noticing some foot deformities, there is still time to save your feet! You and your podiatrist can use conservative treatment to prevent your feet from grandmas painful ugly foot genes!