Are you seeking relief from your bunions? Bunions often run in families and are caused when the tissue or bone at the bottom joint of the big toe moves out of place. This sensation creates a bump to form at the side of the foot. The official name for bunion is hallux valgus, a formation from years of pressure from walking or poor shoe support at the base of the big toe. Women develop bunions more often than men due to wearing high-heeled shoes; however, genetics do take some of the blame. Bunions may occur without any aches or discomfort, but if you are experiencing discomfort with your your bunion, there are several steps you can take.
Treating Bunions At Home
Here are some at-home treatments used to help you alleviate the aches caused by your bunion. Your Wayne, NJ podiatry office recommends the following treatments:
- Wear low-heeled comfortable shoes as much as possible
- Maintain a healthy weight or reduce your weight if you are overweight
- Protect the bunion with a specially-made pad that you can buy over-the-counter at a pharmacy
- Use arch supports or custom orthotics to position your foot properly inside your shoes
- Use analgesics such as aspirin to reduce aches
- Use warm water soaks, ice packs, massage and other similar techniques to soothe feet and reduce discomfort
- Buy custom-fit shoes that are wider in the toe area to eliminate rubbing and irritating the bunion
Consulting with Your Podiatrist
It is always a good idea to consult with your Wayne, NJ podiatrist to track your history with your bunion and see if there are any new treatments available. Your podiatrist will be equipped with the latest technology and techniques for treating bunions as they are made available. If your bunion is disrupting your life due to discomfort on a regular basis, it may be time to consider treatment. Your podiatrist in Wayne, NJ can advise you as to what steps are necessary for you to find the relief you need.
Surgery is not always the answer, however your podiatrist in Wayne, NJ may recommend surgery if your bunion is creating other conditions in your foot such as bursitis, hammertoe, bunions in your smaller toes or problems with the ball of your foot. Surgery will realign the toe to put it back in the proper position including bones, tendons, ligaments and nerves and remove the bump on your foot.
For further questions or concerns regarding bunions, call your podiatry office in Wayne, NJ today. We will be able to find the right treatment for your bunion.
