I have been diagnosed with bunions and very flat feet, any correlation between these two? should i continue exercising? any long term effects?

Yes: Yes, bunions are often caused by a pronated foot which is the cause of a flat foot. The bunions develop over time because of muscle imbalance that results from the pronated foot. I would continue to exercise, but you should have an orthotic to control the pronation and slow down the progression of the bunion deformity.

Bunion care: Having flat feet often times may lead to the development of a bunion deformity. Custom moded orthoces may be of benefit to you. Exercidse is good for you, try wearing wider more comfortable shoes to make it an enjoyable activity.

Yes: Flat feet can cause foot instability that can lead to bunions and hammer toes and other foot and ankle conditions. I would advise a good custom orthotic prior to long term high impact exercise.

Yes to all: There is a definite correlation. I would highly recommend getting and wearing custom orthotics. You can exercise but have to wear proper sneaker. My suggestion (and I don't get paid by any company) is Asics gel GT2000.

So What.: Not to put too fine a point on it, but, there are millions of people out there that have flat feet of varying degrees, and yet, do not have bunions. Some of the best athletes in the world have varying degrees of bunion deformity and yet their performance is not effected. Go figure.