A bunion is a bony bump that develops usually in the big toe. This may be caused by a variety of problems such as inherent problem with foot bones, shape of your foot, foot deformity, arthitis, etc that is usually worsened by wearing ill-fitting shoes. When the bump is in the joint of the little toe, this is called a bunionette or a tailor’s bunion.
Tips for managing bunions
1. The most basic thing in managing bunions is by wearing the proper shoes. They should not be too tight and the heels ideally not exceeding two inches.
2. Avoid wearing shoes with no arch support and avoid flip-flops as well because they put added pressure on the big toe joint.
3. Choose shoes based on comfort, not by your usual foot size. Wear shoes that leave enough space inside for the toes to avoid pressure.
4. Replace your shoes when worn out.
5. Use shoe inserts for added support. Orthotics are available online or you may opt for custom orthotics through your foot doctor.
6. Splinting or padding can help reduce irritation and provide support.
7. Use bunion pads to cushion the bunion and relieve some of the pressure.
8. Avoid standing for long periods of time and activities or sports that may increase pain.
9. If your feet are inflamed, soak your feet in warm water with Epsom salt to reduce inflammation and soothe your feet.
10. When your bunions get sore, you can apply ice packs to reduce the swelling and inflammation.
11. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can be taken to redue the pain and inflammation.
12. Elevating the feet when you are sitting or lying down can help with pain and swelling.
13. Massage and rest your feet to keep the toe flexible and to keep the tissue soft.
Remember that all these things can only help relieve the symptoms temporarily. A bunion will not go away on its own. Over time, the bump can even get worse. The only way to get rid of bunions is though surgical procedure.
Dr. Kevin Lam has modified the bunion surgery technique to be done in the office and to allow for the quickest healing without any complications. No post operative infection related to this scarless bunionectomy to date due to surgical technique and procedures.
For more information on bunions, you may contact Dr. Kevin Lam’s office at (239) 430-3668 (FOOT) or visit NaplesPodiatrist.com
Family Foot and Leg Center has several Centers from Collier, Lee, & Charlotte Counties to quickly resolve all your foot and ankle problems.
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Serving Southwest Florida Since 2005, Family Foot & Leg Center has 9 convenient locations throughout Collier, Lee, Charlotte, and Sarasota Counties. Offering pediatric to geriatric family care: Ingrown Toenails, Heel Pain, Bunions, Foot / Ankle Arthritis Pain, Plantar Fasciitis, Foot / Ankle Surgery, Custom Orthotics, and Diabetic Wound Care. In office X-rays, ultrasounds, and minor surgical suite exam rooms. Practice powered by EMR and advanced technologies. Home of the Lam Minimal Invasive No-Scar Bunion Surgery! Come Discover Why Patients Love Our 5-Star Foot & Ankle Care! Same Day Appointments! Easy Online Appointment Scheduling!
