A bunion is a painful foot deformity that warrants turning to a podiatrist to learn how to manage your pain and slow the deformity’s progression. If you suspect you might have a bunion, but you’ve never actually found out, it’s time to turn to a podiatrist to learn more. In the meantime, here’s what you should know about bunion pain and ways to manage it.
What Is a Bunion?
A bunion is a deformity of the big toe’s joint that causes a large, bony bump to stick out at the edge of the foot at the base of the toe. The bump may become swollen, red or painful, especially when wearing certain shoes.
What Are Some Ways That I Can Manage My Symptoms?
There are ways to slow a bunion’s progress enough that you may never need surgery. If your symptoms are minor, changing your shoes will make a world of difference. Opt for shoes with a wide toe box, don’t put pressure on the bunion, and have a low heel.
Shoes should also provide proper support, and remember—shoes don’t last forever. We know it’s tough to part with them, but if your shoes are worn out, they aren’t giving your feet the stability they need.
Other ways to reduce bunion pain and take pressure off the deformed joint is to,
- Maintain a healthy weight (or lose excess weight)
- Apply a non-medicated bunion pad over the joint before wearing shoes
- Consider using custom orthotics or night splints (talk with your podiatrist first)
- Take NSAID pain relievers when necessary to ease bouts of achiness and throbbing pain
- Apply ice packs to the area or take warm soaks to ease symptoms
- Consider getting regular massages to help boost blood flow
Can I Get Rid of a Bunion?
The simple answer is “yes”. You can get rid of a bunion but only through surgery. Of course, while surgery is usually the last treatment option to consider, this doesn’t necessarily mean that surgery isn’t the right choice for you. You may be a good candidate for bunion surgery if,
- Your bunion doesn’t respond to home treatment
- Bunion pain is severe and chronic
- Your bunion affects your daily routine and quality of life
Don’t let bunion pain impact your life and daily routine. A podiatrist can map out a treatment plan that fits your lifestyle and activities to help you better control your pain and get back to what you love doing.