A bunion is a bony bump that protrudes out on the side of your big toe. While it is just a cosmetic concern for some, others find it to be a painful condition that prevents them from wearing the shoes they want and partaking in the activities they enjoy. Fortunately, for most people, nonsurgical treatments are enough to bring relief. Here are some effective ways you can treat bunions without resorting to invasive procedures.
Orthotics
Orthotics are inserts you place inside your shoe that realign your feet. This can be beneficial if you have flat feet. Flat feet and low arches can contribute to the development and worsening of bunions.
Loose tendons and joints increase your risk, as well, and orthotics can support these ligaments and joints. By using orthotics, you can correct any structural abnormalities your feet have, so that your bunions do not get worse and your feet get the support necessary to relieve symptoms.
Footwear
The footwear you wear matters a lot when it comes to bunion pain relief. Footwear that doesn’t give enough room to the front part of your foot will push against the bunion and lead to inflammation. Footwear that puts pressure on the front of the foot, such as heels, can also cause painful symptoms and even result in worsening of the bunions.
As such, wearing supportive and comfortable shoes is critical to treating bunions. Talk to your podiatrist about finding shoes that fit your feet, do not inflame existing bunions, and provide your feet with the support necessary to stop the worsening of the bunions.
Night Splint
Your podiatrist may prescribe night splints to reduce pain symptoms associated with bunions. Night splints will reposition your toes gently to reduce pressure on them. This particular treatment is meant to relieve your pain while you sleep.
Manage Your Weight
If you are overweight and have painful bunions, losing weight may be able to help. The added pressure of your body weight can worsen bunions and the symptoms associated with them. As such, losing weight reduces the pressure on your feet and painful symptoms caused by bunions.
Temporary Relief
If you have painful bunions and need relief immediately, there are many ways you can get it. Here are some tips:
- Applying ice to your bunions can temporarily numb the area and reduce pain symptoms. If you have painful bunions after a long day of being on your feet, applying ice can help you get relief quickly.
- Rest If you have painful bunions, the best thing to do is get off your feet. By sitting or lying down, and propping your feet up, your feet will get a chance to relax and heal. This will reduce pain symptoms, so you can get up the next day feeling better.
- Take an Over-the-Counter Pain Reliever Another option you have is taking over-the-counter pain relievers. A non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, for instance, will temporarily relieve inflammation and reduce pain. Acetaminophen can relieve pain, as well.
Choose Our Cincinnati, OH Podiatry Clinic for Bunion Relief
The experts at Cincinnati Foot & Ankle Care treat foot and ankle related issues, such as bunions, on a daily basis. If you suffer from bunions, visit us today, and find out how we can help you get long-term relief.
Book an appointment today with Cincinnati Foot & Ankle Care, with 18 locations in Cincinnati and the rest of the surrounding southwest Ohio region. Call your preferred location, or request an appointment online. We look forward to serving you soon!
