(HealthDay News) -- A bunion is a sore, swollen bump on the foot at the joint of the big toe. It can be very sore and painful, and may require surgery to remove.

Here are suggestions to prevent a bunion, courtesy of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons:

• Never try to force your foot into a shoe that doesn't fit well, or is too tight.
• Wear soft-soled shoes with wide insteps and ample space for the toes.
• Don't wear any heels higher than 2 1/4 inches.
• Avoid pointy-toed shoes.
• Wear cushioned pads in your shoes to prevent a bunion, and also to ease the pain of a bunion that has already formed.