A bunion is a bony protrusion at the base of the big toe. Many people think that a bunion is growth and try to shave or crush it. That can result in serious complications. If you have bunions, you need to pay sufficient attention to your feet. In this article, we have gathered eight effective tips on how to treat bunions you should be aware of.
1. Apply ice
Ice therapy can help relieve pain and inflammation caused by a bunion. To make a cold compress, wrap some ice in a clean cloth or kitchen towel, or use a bag of frozen peas or other vegetables. Apply a cold compress to the bunion.
Don't apply ice directly to your toes, as this can cause frostbite. Use ice therapy several times a day to relieve swelling and discomfort. Be careful as direct ice application can be hazardous since people with sensitive skin are also at risk of frostbite.
2. Exercise
Due to the fact that bunions often occur due to a lack of stability in your joints, ligaments, and tendons, exercising can help make your feet stronger. It is important to limit exercising if your bunions are extremely painful since you can affect them more.
3. Wear comfortable shoes
Even though bunions are hereditary, there are ascertain factors that can also contribute to their development. For example, high heels and narrow shoes can press on your feet and make a bib toe shift. That’s why it is essential to wear comfortable shoes with low heels and wide toe boxes.
4. Consider orthotics
If your bunions cause discomfort and pain while wearing shoes, you may want to consider orthopedics. Even though they may not correct bunions, orthotics can help reduce pain in the bunion and slow its progression. If you are experiencing joint pain when walking or exercising, using orthotics can help reduce symptoms.
5. Perform massage
To relieve bunion pain, massage its area with olive oil. This local stimulation can improve blood circulation, reduce pressure, and relieve pain. You can also add a few drops of lavender essential oil to your carrier oil. Due to its analgesic properties, lavender oil can relieve pain and discomfort caused by bunions.
6. Maintain a healthy body weight
It is important to understand that people who have extra pounds are more likely to develop bunions. The point is that the bodyweight puts additional pressure on the joints of your feet and this can lead to bunions. That’s why it is better to maintain a healthy weight to reduce the pain and discomfort caused by bunions.
7. Take painkillers
If you experience severe pain, there is no reason to endure it. There is a huge variety of pain medications that can help ease your pain if you can’t visit a foot doctor right now. You can take OTC analgesics, like Advil and Aleve, to reduce the pain.
8. Visit a foot doctor
Severe bunions that cause unbearable pain while walking, make wearing shoes unbearable, and interfere with your normal activities should be treated by a doctor. It is important to understand that massage, painkillers, and other home remedies can’t align your big toe. Only a professional foot doctor can treat bunions effectively.
The bottom line
If you want to ease the pain and discomfort caused by bunions, it is essential to wear comfortable shoes, perform massages, and use orthotics to ease the pain and improve your condition. But you should understand that advanced bunions can be cured only by a doctor. Timely and proper treatment will help you ease your pain and get back to your daily routine without discomfort.
