A bunion is a bump that develops at the base of the big toe where it joins the metatarsal bone in the foot. Also called a hallux valgus deformity, it involves the big toe joint and occurs when some of the bones in the toe move out of place. If you wear shoes that are tight, narrow, and ill-fitting, it can cause bunions or make them worse. People with flat feet are at higher risk of developing bunions. Women who wear footwear with high heels are also at higher risk.
Bunion pain in the foot can make it difficult to perform daily activities like walking. There can also be swelling and redness in the skin of the foot near the toe joint due to shoe pressure. If you have these problems, you may need to see a foot doctor or podiatrist for evaluation.
A bunion deformity can be treated with surgery. It is a major surgery and full recovery can take 4-6 months. However, not every bunion requires surgery. Keep reading to learn about the non surgical options to treat bunion pain.
Why big toe bunions need attention
A bunion forms in the big toe joint at a critical junction in the foot where bones and connective tissue can be seriously damaged. An untreated bunion can cause the big toe to deviate towards the other toes and damage them as well. Without relief of pressure on the big toe, corns, calluses, and ingrown nails can develop. The big toe can become stiff and form a hammertoe deformity. The chronic pressure on the joint can lead to arthritis and long-term pain. Over time, the joint can become so misshapen that it may be impossible to fit the foot into a shoe and perform routine activities like walking.
What to do about bunions?
A bunion forms due to years of abnormal pressure on the toe from poorly fitting footwear. It can lead to constant and severe pain without surgery. Bunion surgery is safe and effective and prevents the problem from getting worse. However, it requires several months of recovery and physical therapy. It is possible to treat bunions without surgery. You can do several things to reduce bunion pain and slow the progression of your foot problems.
What is the best non surgical treatment for bunions?
The most important thing you can do to relieve pressure on the toe is to wear comfortable, wide, low-heeled shoes that have enough space in the toe box area. You should consider shopping for shoes at a store where the staff can measure your foot and recommend footwear that will fit well without putting pressure on the toe.
Treating bunions without surgery
If you are suffering from pain due to bunion formation, one of the options available to you is bunion surgery. As noted before, this is a major procedure, and therefore, like many patients, you are probably wondering: Can bunions be corrected without surgery? Is there an alternative to bunion surgery?
The answer is yes and no. For many patients, conservative treatment works well and relieves the pain in the toes and foot. For others, however, non surgical bunion treatment does not offer relief and surgery is the only option.
Conservative treatment options for bunions
A painful bunion can interfere with daily activities like walking and exercising. You can do several things to keep it from worsening. Conservative measures for bunions can prevent the need for surgery.
Body weight
You should also attempt to maintain a healthy body weight to reduce stress on your feet.
Pads and inserts
Another option is to use a bunion treatment like gel-filled bunion pads or shoe insert which helps to position the foot correctly in shoes. These devices are usually available over-the-counter at drugstores.
Splints
A podiatrist (foot doctor) may prescribe bunion splints that you can wear at night to relieve pressure on the toe joint by holding it straight.
Pain medication
You can take an over the counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication like ibuprofen to ease the foot discomfort caused by a bunion.
Conservative treatments
Many patients report that ice packs, warm soaks, massage, whirlpool baths, and ultrasound help them manage their foot pain, and these treatments may work for you.
Steroid shots
Cortisone injections that contain a mix of steroids and local anesthetic can temporarily relieve pain in the feet caused by bunions.
If none of these remedies for bunions relieve your foot pain, it might be worthwhile making an appointment with a podiatrist or foot ankle doctor. They will examine your foot and may order x rays to see if anything else is going on. They will be able to advise you about the best way to reduce bunion pain and whether you should seek a consultation for bunion surgery.
Do bunion correctors really work?
A bunion corrector is a device that attempts to improve the position of a misaligned big toe and reduce pressure on the joint. There are many different types of bunion correctors on the market, including splints and toe spacers. Some bunion correctors provide support and cushioning to relieve pain and swelling. Although many people get some relief of symptoms with shoe inserts, toe spacers, and splints, unfortunately, bunion correctors cannot cure a bunion or get rid of the bunion from your foot.
How will I know if I need bunion surgery?
You should consider bunion surgery if you have severe foot pain every day, even when you are wearing flat, comfortable shoes. Surgery is indicated for bunions if the condition is preventing you from doing daily activities like walking and exercising. Your doctor may recommend surgical correction of a bunion if rest and medications do not relieve your pain. Some people with severe deformity may be unable to fit their foot comfortably in a shoe. Another reason to see foot and ankle surgeons is if the big toe is drifting toward the second toe and/or you are unable to straighten or bend the toe.
Where to get care for bunions?
Bunions are usually treated by doctors called podiatrists who specialize in conditions affecting the feet. The MeTime app makes it easy to find healthcare providers in your area. You can click and upload pictures and have suggestions sent directly to you. Want to learn more about non surgical options for bunions? Try the MeTime app now!
