How to Treat Bunion Problems
A bunion is a bony bump that forms on the joint of the big toe. The enlarged joint causes pain and discomfort. Bunions can result from ill-fitting shoes, medical conditions or genetic conditions. Treatments are available and conservative measures are usually effective. More serious cases might require surgery.
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Instructions
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Wear properly-fitting shoes that offer ample room for your toes.
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Tape and pad your foot into its proper position. This will take stress off the bunion and ease pain. Your doctor can assist you with this.
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Use over-the-counter pain relievers like Tylenol, Advil, Motrin and Aleve. If your pain is more severe, your doctor might recommend steroid injections but this is not viable as a frequent, long-term treatment.
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Put orthotics (shoe inserts) into your shoes. They reduce abnormal foot movement, ease symptoms and keep the bunion from getting worse. Your doctor can determine if over-the-counter inserts are sufficient or if prescription ones are necessary.
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Ease swelling with an ice pack for a few minutes, two to three times a day.
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Do not wear shoes with heels higher than 2 inches.
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Talk to your doctor if conservative treatments are not providing adequate relief. If your pain is frequent or the bunion is interfering with daily living, surgery might be an option. Your doctor can provide a timeframe for giving conservative treatments a fair go. If he decides surgery is necessary, you might receive one of several procedures, depending on individual circumstances. They include eliminating the swollen tissue surrounding the joint, getting rid of part of the bone to straighten the toe, realigning the bone to correct deformity or permanently connecting the bones of the joint.
Depending on the procedure, you might be able to walk right away or need up to 2 months to recover. The surgery cannot guarantee another bunion will never form.
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Tips & Warnings
Discuss all of the above treatments and remedies with your doctor, and let your doctor know if pain persists.
