Tips for Avoiding Painful Foot Issues with Bunions

Bunions are a problem that affects a significant number of people. In fact, it’s estimated that more than half of the population will experience bunions at some point in their lives. Bunions are simply small deformities of the ball and socket joint in your foot.

They can cause immense pain, especially when walking or running. And as if that weren’t bad enough, they also tend to recur. To prevent bunions and other foot issues from plaguing you, follow these five tips.

What are Bunions?

A bunion is a deformity of the joint at the base of the big toe. The big toe bends toward the second toe, and the joint enlarges and sticks out. This deformity can make wearing shoes very painful. Bunions occur more often in women than in men, probably because women wear shoes that crowd the toes.

Bunions most often occur when people are born with abnormal foot structure or when their shoes rub against the side of their foot. Arthritis also can cause bunions. People who have flat feet or low arches are more likely to get bunions.

Most bunions can be treated without surgery. Wearing comfortable, well-fitting shoes and using cushioning or other devices to relieve pressure on your big toe may help ease pain from bunions. If these treatments don’t help, you may need surgery to remove the bunion or correct the deformity of your big toe joint.

Treat Bunions at Home

Bunions are a type of foot issue that can cause pain and discomfort. There are several ways to treat bunions at home, including applying heat, ice, or a topical cream. If the bunion is on the ball of the foot, it may require surgery.

Use a Heel Pad to Reduce Pain

One of the most effective methods is to use a heel pad. Heel pads are simple devices that you can insert into your shoes to help reduce pain and inflammation in the feet.

Heel pads work by absorbing shock and reducing the amount of pressure that is placed on the ball of your foot. This can help to prevent Bunions, as well as other painful foot issues, from developing.

To use a heel pad, simply place it between the shoe and your foot. Make sure that it is tight enough so that it doesn't move around, but not so tight that it becomes uncomfortable. You can also adjust the fit by adding or removing layers of foam depending on how comfortable you feel.

If you experience any pain or discomfort when wearing a heel pad, it is best to consult with a doctor before modifying your footwear habits. However, using a heel pad may be one of the simplest things you can do to improve your foot health and reduce pain in the future.

Wear Comfortable Shoes

When it comes to bunions, there are a few things that you can do to help avoid pain and minimize potential damage. First, make sure you wear particular shoes if you have bunions, which means wearing shoes that fit well and are supportive, as well as using foot cream or lotion regularly.

Also, high heels can exacerbate the symptoms of bunions by putting extra pressure on the front of the foot. If you must wear heels, alternate with lower heels or flats to give your feet a break.

Avoid Over the Counter treatment

If you have bunion surgery scheduled, make sure to discuss the procedure with your doctor beforehand so that they can be aware of any changes in your feet prior to surgery. Additionally, try avoiding over-the-counter treatments that may cause more pain than relief.

For example, ice packs or ibuprofen will only provide short-term relief and may actually increase the risk of further injury. If you do experience pain from a bunion or other foot issue, consult with a podiatrist or foot doctor who can provide guidance on the best way to treat your condition.