How To Reduce Bunion Pain Quickly: Podiatry

by Ted and Jen under CC BY

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Bunions are a deformity of soft tissue and bone on the foot that can result in inflammation and constant or recurring pain. Bunion, is a term that means bump, which is descriptive of a deformity that usually appears at the base of a toe on the either side of the foot.

The primary complaint of bunion sufferers is irritation and bunion pain. The pain results from inflammation in and around toe joints which are deformed as the position of the bones shift as a result of the bunion. Bunions will frequently rub against the inside of a shoe that is tight, resulting in further irritation and pain in bunion.

If your pain is severe, or your bunion is particularly large, it is a good idea to seek the advice of a podiatrist. However, we will provide you with some advice that can assist in reducing bunion pain.

Soak Your Foot

You can begin by soaking your foot. Soaking your foot in cool water will normally soothe an irritated foot. If you do not own a foot spa, a large basin will suffice. You should add several teaspoons of Epsom salt to the basin and fill it with cool water. The water should be deep enough to reach the height of your ankle. Epsom salts are readily available at most pharmacies. You should soak your foot for about fifteen minutes.

Use A Topical Analgesic For Bunion Pain Treatment

There are numerous topical analgesics that are available as gels, creams, and ointments. You can easily find them at just about any pharmacy. A lot of these products will contain ingredients such as menthol that will induce a sensation of cooling.

There are also a number of topical analgesics that have capsaicin as their active ingredient. Capsaicin will block pain temporarily, it is derived from chili peppers, and it is helpful for symptomatic relief.

Toe Stretching Exercises

To help alleviate the pain associated with a sore toe joints, stretching exercises can be helpful. When you are seated grab your toe, or use a strap to grab your toe. Pull your toe gently through a series of range of motion exercises. Hold your toe in a stretched position for thirty seconds and repeat several times.

Then gently stretch your toe away from the adjacent toe, holding it for thirty seconds and repeating several times. If the pain associated with these stretching exercises is severe, it is best to stop doing them.

Use A Toe Space or Bunion Relief Splint

There are several devices you can use for bunion relief that can assist you in reducing inflammation and pain. The primary way that these devices work is by a reduction of stress on the joint of the toe which is called a metatarsophalangeal joint. Night splints, sleeves, and toe spreaders are devices that may help you. There are even specialized bunion socks that offer support that are available.

Try Different Shoes

It would be a good idea to have your feet measured. Throughout the course of your life, your feet may change in size. Bunions will normally cause your feet to be wider. Consequently, a wider shoe may reduce some of inflammation and pain you are experiencing. If you have a pair of shoes that is giving you difficulty, you may be able to have the material in the shoes stretched at a shoe repair shop.

In some cases, you may need to go to a podiatrist and have shoes that are specially designed to reduce your bunion pain and discomfort. You can also go to a shoe store and try on a variety of wider shoes to see if you can find a pair that is comfortable for you.