However, a bunion will get worse faster if the wrong types of footwear are worn. Shoes with narrow, pointed, toe boxes that squeeze the toes into an unnatural position (i.e. high heels) can contribute to worsening bunions. According to the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society, 88 percent of women in the U.S. wear shoes that are too tight and 55 percent of women have bunions. Also, women get bunions nine times more often than men.