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Whether you are trying to prevent a bunion from getting worse or simply making yourself more comfortable as you wait for bunion surgery, there's a lot you can do at home to help care for your bunions.
Change Shoes
There's still disagreement over whether narrow, high-heeled shoes are one of the causes of bunions or only worsen them, but either way, you should avoid them as much as possible. If you feel any pressure on the joint of your big toe from a pair of shoes, they may worsen your bunion.
This doesn't mean you have to wear ugly orthotic shoes (although that might be the most comfortable thing). If you want to stay fashionable, look for wide-toe shoes. There are many dressier shoes for both men and women with square toes and low or no heels.
Do Low-Impact Exercise
If running or walking is causing you pain, don't give up on exercise completely. Try lifting weights, swimming, or bicycling instead. Adding yoga to your exercise routine has another benefit – many yoga classes also introduce some meditation techniques that can aid with managing pain and discomfort.
Ask Your Doctor About Orthotics
Orthotics doesn't have to mean completely custom shoes – there are pads and supports that can be worn inside regular shoes to help keep your weight evenly distributed. This will reduce pressure on the joint and bunion. Since your feet are a unique product of your genetics and lifestyle, a doctor can make the best recommendation about what orthotics are right for you.
Stretch Shoes
If you have shoes that you just don't want to give up, but they are placing pressure on your bunion, try stretching the material. Cheaper, synthetic materials may not work well for this, but leather shoes generally take well to stretching. You can buy tools to help you stretch shoes at home; if you just want to adjust one or two pairs, though, consider taking them to a shoe repair shop.
Prepare for Surgery
While they can provide relief, none of these treatments will fix or remove a bunion. If your bunion is not severe, you may be able to completely manage it with things like orthotics and comfortable shoes. But if your pain is serious and affects your life negatively, you will probably need foot surgery.
Bunion surgery is generally outpatient; the exact techniques vary a great deal based on your specific foot, joint, and bone structure. By following your doctor's directions and taking care of your feet after surgery, you should be able to go back to a life without foot pain – just make sure to keep wearing good shoes.
Share24 February 2015
