A bunion is a bony growth that develops on the big toe joint. Fortunately, Alamo Heights podiatrist offers the proper treatment for your bunion.

 Whether your bunion  results from wearing those  improperly fitting shoes or from a neuromuscular condition, you can treat it using home remedies like;

  1.     Soak your feet in a footbath

 Soak your feet in the water to help ease discomfort and inflammation a few times each week. Also, you can add Epsom salt to warm water. Salt contains magnesium, which may reduce your bunion and help prevent pain.

  1.     Use ice for your feet

If your bunion gets inflamed or if you have been standing for too long, icing it may reduce pain and swelling. Avoid applying ice to your skin directly. Before using the ice pack on your bunion, wrap it in a towel. To effectively reduce swelling, keeping your foot elevated while applying ice is essential. If you have circulation issues, consult your doctor before using ice.

  1.     Maintain a healthy weight

Your body places weight on your feet with each step you make. Being overweight increases pressure on the big toe joint and the foot, increasing the risk of bunion development and aggravating it once present. Losing weight may ease symptoms and relieve added strain on your big toe joint.

  1.     Use bunion pads

Bunions are relieved of pressure using bunion pads. Protective pads are often used with shoes to reduce friction between the bunion and the inside of the shoe. Additionally, they provide padding for increased comfort. There are many bunion pads; some deal with discomfort, while others deal with the big toe’s alignment issue. Consult a healthcare professional to ensure you have the proper bunion pad for your circumstance.

  1.     Use shoe inserts

You may lessen your discomfort and stop your bunion from growing worse by using shoe inserts. When you shift your feet, these inserts help pressure be distributed evenly. While over-the-counter shoe inserts may assist some individuals, prescription orthotic devices may be necessary for others.

  1.     Change footwear

Flip-flops may be comfortable to wear all the time, but they do not provide your feet with the necessary support. Although wearing generic flip-flops is not better, bunion discomfort might worsen due to friction against the inside of the shoe. Choose shoes with arch support to relieve strain on the big toe joint by shifting it to the foot’s arch for improved comfort. These shoes should also enable the toes to stretch out and rest.

  1.     Apply a topical pain reliever

Topical painkillers may assist in lessening pain and inflammation temporary. An example of a topical pain reliever you may use is Biofreeze, which is widely used and effectively reduces pain by reducing blood flow and momentarily perplexing pain signals. You may use Biofreeze up to four times a day on the bunion to relieve discomfort.

You should visit a podiatrist for effective treatment if your bunion does not respond to these home remedies. Call Marque A. Allen, DPM, FACFAS, to book an appointment for painful bunions treatment.