Bunion is a painful, bony bump that can develop along the inside of your foot, at the base of your big toe. This results in a misalignment of your big toe, causing it to bend inwards. Progression of a bunion can cause redness and tenderness to palpation. This discomfort leads to limitations to activities of daily living like walking and play sports.
What causes bunions?
The main cause is wearing shoes that are pointy or too tight in the toe box and genetics. Tight shoes strain the MTP (metatarsophalangeal) joint where the big toe meets the foot. Women are more likely to develop bunions because they often wear high heels. A bunion can also be the result of heredity or arthritis. If you have developed a bunion, it is wise to consult with a podiatrist earlier rather than later. The podiatrist can examine the area and help you decide the correct measures to take. Treatment ranges from elastic bunion pads or shoe inserts in minor cases to surgery in the most severe.
How are bunions treated?
Taking NSAIDS
One of the most common symptoms of bunions is swelling at the base of the big toe, which a natural response to an injury. Taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medicine can help relieve both the swelling and the pain caused by the bunion.
Alternating between hot and cold packs
Soothing the painful site by mixing hot and cold therapies is a good option for pain and swelling relief. Cold packs constrict blood vessels, which helps bring down the swelling. Hot packs helps improve blood flow and relaxes the joints and muscles around the area.
Shoe inserts and Proper footwear
Avoiding high heels and pointed toe shoes can help decrease pressure on your bunion and toes. Therefore, wearing supportive shoes with plenty of room can help progression of bunion. Along with proper shoes, orthotics and shoe inserts can level up the bunion to make your feet more comfortable throughout the day.
Non-surgical treatment:
Bunions are long-lasting except if you treat them properly and at the early stage.
For some individuals, it might just involve wearing appropriately fitting shoes and make some adjustments so that your shoes have a lot of room for your toes and your foot get relief. Following measures will also relieve the pain.
- Keep your BMI in normal ranges. Overweight may result in worsening of pain.
- Safeguard the bunion with a moleskin or gel-filled cushion, which you can purchase at a pharmacy.
- Use shoe comforts to assist with placement of the foot.
- Under a specialist’s direction, wear a brace around evening time to hold the toe straight and avoid bending of toe.
- Take pain relieving medications like ibuprofen.
- Utilize warm splashes, ice packs, and back rub.
- Purchase well-fitting footwear that is wide in the toe region. Shop at a store where the staff estimates your foot and can fit you with a suitable shoe.
If non-surgical treatment does not provide relief, a podiatrist can provide other treatment options for a bunion.
Dr. Zubeen Mistry at DFW Foot and Ankle care can provide treatment options, including minimally invasive surgery options. If you have any questions about bunions or would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Zubeen Mistry, contact our office at (469) 551-8595.
