*What to Do with Bunions
1. **Choose the Right Footwear:** The first step in managing bunions is to wear shoes that provide adequate space for your toes and don't squeeze them together. Look for wide-toed or adjustable shoes with proper arch support. Avoid high heels and shoes with pointy toes, as they can exacerbate the problem.
2. **Orthotics and Inserts:** Custom or over-the-counter orthotics and arch supports can help alleviate bunion pain by providing additional support and redistributing pressure on the foot.
3. **Toe Spacers:** These are designed to separate the big toe from the adjacent toes, which can relieve pressure on the bunion.
4. **Stretching Exercises:** Gentle stretching exercises can help maintain flexibility in your toes and reduce discomfort. Try exercises that focus on toe flexibility and mobility.
5. **Pain Relief:** Over-the-counter pain relievers or anti-inflammatory medications can help manage pain and reduce inflammation associated with bunions. However, consult with a healthcare professional before long-term use.
6. **Icing:** Applying ice to the bunion for 15-20 minutes at a time can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain.
7. **Physical Therapy:** A physical therapist can recommend specific exercises and techniques to improve the strength and flexibility of the affected foot.
8. **Bunion Splints or Pads:** These devices can help realign the toe joint and cushion the bunion, providing relief and preventing further irritation.
9. **Injections:** In some cases, a healthcare provider may suggest corticosteroid injections to reduce pain and inflammation.
10. **Surgery:** If conservative treatments don't provide relief and the bunion is causing severe pain or affecting your daily life, surgery may be an option. Bunion surgery can involve realigning the bones, removing the bony bump, and repairing damaged tissues.