Are you suffering from painful bunions? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! According to the NHS website around one in three adults in the UK will develop bunions at some point in their lifetime. Here are some tips to help manage the pain and prevent bunions from interfering with your daily life.
Bunions are bony spurs which form at the base of the big toe joint as part of the body’s natural defence system and can cause pain, swelling, and make walking a challenge.
The most noticeable symptom of having a bunion is a bulge on the outside of the base of your big toe. This bulge can cause your big toe to point inward, which can lead to redness, swelling, and pain on and around the affected area. You may also experience discomfort or pain when walking or moving your big toe. Bunions can also lead to corns or calluses forming where your big toe and second toe meet. Bunions can get worse overtime if left untreated, so it’s important to take action sooner rather than later!
If you have a family history of bunions or tend to wear shoes that don’t fit properly, you may be at a higher risk of developing them. For instance, wearing poorly fitted and tight shoes can cause pressure on the big toe joint which can cause the bone to shift out of place, resulting in a bony bump on the side of the foot.
But don’t worry, there are ways to prevent and treat bunions. It’s important to wear shoes that fit well and have plenty of room for your toes to move around. Additionally, using bunion pads or splints can help alleviate pressure on the affected area and slow down the progression of the bunion.
If your bunions are causing severe pain or affecting your ability to walk, your doctor may recommend surgery. However, most cases can be managed with non-surgical treatments. So, take care of your feet and seek medical attention if you notice any changes or discomfort.
If you suspect you have a bunion, the first step is to book a visit with a podiatrist. They will perform a physical examination, checking the shape and range of motion of your foot, as well as discussing your symptoms and medical history. To confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity of the bunion, X-rays may also be needed. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent it from getting worse.
Yes, bunions can cause other foot problems to develop from metatarsalgia to hammertoes, corns, calluses, and bursitis. Bunions can often trigger a domino effect of other foot problems, pain and discomfort which can in some cases be severe enough to interfere with your day to day life and mobility.
Bunions cannot always be prevented, but taking certain precautions can definitely help. Wearing properly fitted shoes that are comfortable and have a wide toe box, and staying clear of high heels and tight fitting shoes can significantly reduce the likelihood of developing bunions.
There are lots of different treatment available to help alleviate your symptoms and get you back on your feet. Let’s take a look at some of the most effective treatments for bunions:
First is wearing comfortable shoes. This may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s important to avoid shoes that are too tight or put pressure on the bunion. Next, using bunion pads or cushions can help alleviate the pain caused by shoes rubbing against the bunion.
Next make sure you are wearing shoe insoles or orthotics inside your shoes as they can provide added support and cushioning for the foot, which can be especially helpful for those who spend a lot of time on their feet. Here at Footreviver we have a wide range of different orthotics, insoles and bunion pads and splints that can all help ease your pain and prevent your bunions from getting worse.
Over-the-counter medication can provide some much-needed relief. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin and ibuprofen work wonders in reducing inflammation and providing relief from pain. But, that’s not all – acetaminophen has also been known to alleviate discomfort associated with bunions. However, whenever taking any form of pain medication it’s crucial to follow the recommended dosage instructions and avoid prolonged consumption of these medications.
Stretching and strengthening exercises can also be beneficial in preventing further pain and discomfort. Toe stretches and foot strengthening exercises are great options.
In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the issue. But don’t worry, this is only in rare circumstances. It’s important for individuals with bunions to seek medical advice to determine the best course of action for their specific situation. With the right treatment plan in place, you can say goodbye to bunion pain and get back to doing the things you love.
When picking a pair of shoes it is important to look for shoes that have a wide toe box to allow the toes to spread out and minimize pressure on the bunion. Secondly, ensure that the shoes have good arch support to provide stability and reduce the strain on the foot. You should also wear shoes with a low heel to minimize the pressure on the front of the foot, which can exacerbate bunion pain. Choosing shoes that are made from soft and stretchy materials is also important as this can help reduce pressure off the bunion and reduce discomfort.
When shopping for shoes, you should always try them on in person and walk around to ensure they are comfortable and do not put any pressure on the bunion. Remember, a good shoe should feel comfortable from the moment you try it on, so don’t hesitate to take the time to find the perfect fit.
