Bunion Treatment Basics
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Non-Surgical and Surgical Options to treat bunions
A bunion is a foot deformity that causes the development of a bony bump along the base of the big toe. This bump can force your big toe to point in the opposite direction, causing your big toe to turn in towards your other toes. Explore treatment options and ways that you can prevent bunions.
Treatment Options
There are numerous bunion treatment options. Treatment varies depending on the size of the bunion and the amount of pain that it causes.
Nonsurgical Treatments
- Medications: Your doctor may recommend an over-the-counter or prescription medication that can help to relieve pain. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can also relieve inflammation and swelling.
- Appropriate footwear: If you have a bunion, you should wear shoes that are wide fitting and have plenty of room for your toes. Avoid wearing shoes that are narrow or high heels.
- Shoe inserts: Orthotics placed inside your shoes can help to relieve pressure and reduce pain. They can also be helpful in preventing your bunion from worsening.
- Padding: By placing bunion pads over the bunion, you can reduce pressure and prevent your foot from rubbing against your shoe.
- Icing: You can apply an ice pack several times of day to reduce pain and inflammation.
Surgical Treatments
When conservative treatments are not helpful, your doctor may recommend surgery as a treatment option. There are a variety of surgical procedures, including:
- Removal of the swollen tissue surrounding the joint of your big toe
- Removing a portion of bone to straighten the big toe
- Realigning the bone behind the big toe
- Cutting out the bunion and part of the bone
Bunion Prevention
- Always wear comfortable shoes that do not pinch or cramp your toes
- Wear shoes with a wide toe box
- Avoid tight shoes that place pressure on the joints of your big toe
- Perform exercises to strengthen your feet and toes
If you're developing bunions and would like treatment, contact Talus inMotion Foot & Ankle and schedule a consultation.