It’s hard to miss a bunion, even if you have socks on. That’s because this common foot problem causes a visible deformity or bump at the base of the big toe. The worse the bunion, the more this joint starts to jut out, causing the toe to point inward instead of straight ahead.
Less often, these deformities develop on the outside of the pinky toe, a condition known as a tailor’s bunion or “bunionette.”
Whether they involve your big toe, the pinky, or both, bunions can also cause pain, stiffness, and other symptoms that disrupt daily activities. Sound familiar?
If bunions are slowing you down, our Advanced Care Foot and Ankle team has management strategies that can help in Corona and Ontario, California.
First up, if you notice bunions, it’s time to rethink your footwear. Bunions develop for various reasons, especially when you put extra pressure on the toes from wearing narrow, pointed, or high-heeled shoes.
And, if you already have bunions, continuing to wear footwear that adds pressure only makes the problem, and your symptoms, worse.
To keep your feet in good shape, choose shoes with plenty of room in the toe box to avoid unnecessary friction and pressure.
There’s a reason why people turn to ice packs and heating pads. These methods offer natural pain relief for numerous conditions, including bunions. However, it’s all about the right approach.
If you have bunions, pay attention to your symptoms so you can apply the best therapy.
For instance, if you have swelling or inflammation, try ice packs or a cold foot soak. This strategy can help constrict swollen blood vessels and soothe irritated areas.
Do you have tenderness or cramping in your feet or the affected area? Try a warm foot soak or heating pad instead.
Heat therapies can improve blood flow and relax sore muscles and joints, bringing much-needed relief for bunion pain.
Finally, it’s never too early to bring a foot expert on board if you have bunions. This condition can’t be reversed, and they won’t go away on their own. Instead, it’s only going to get worse with time.
An expert can provide personalized recommendations based on your unique needs to improve your symptoms. Their expertise can also keep your bunions from worsening, so you should schedule a consultation as early as possible.
Our team uses a combination of management strategies to manage bunions, such as:
For severe bunions, our team could suggest surgery.
Have you noticed the telltale signs of a bunion? Don’t wait to find an effective management strategy. Contact Advanced Care Foot and Ankle to schedule a visit with our experienced podiatrists in Corona or Ontario, California, today.