Bunions are often thought of as a problem for the elderly, but they can affect people of all ages. The most obvious sign of this condition is that the big toe pushes against the second toe causing a bump to develop on the top or side of the big toe. This can also occur on the other side of your foot with the pinky toe pushing into the fourth toe. When a bump forms on the pinky toe it is sometimes called a bunionette. Each of these conditions can be very painful and cause other problems to develop including corns and calluses.
Some of the best conservative and noninvasive treatments for bunions include the following:
Resting and icing—Apply ice to the swollen area for ten-minute intervals several times a day to relieve pain and inflammation.
Pain relievers—NSAID pain relievers such as ibuprofen and Aleve will also reduce swelling.
Properly fitted shoes—Wear shoes with a wide toe box and avoid wearing shoes that are too tight such as high heels that increase side pressure on your toe joints.
Shoe inserts—Properly placed orthotic shoe inserts can help to isolate the bunion and prevent corns and calluses from starting or getting more aggravated.
Cortisone injections—Your foot specialist may also recommend steroid injections to help reduce pain and inflammation.
Splints and braces—A specially designed splint may be worn at night that applies pressure to pull your big toe away from the other toes and to straighten it out.
If these home and conservative remedies don’t completely eliminate your pain, it may be necessary to have surgery to realign the toe, ligaments, and tendons. Imaging studies will be performed to develop a surgical and rehabilitation plan for your unique situation.
If you are experiencing bunion pain, consult with our board-certified podiatristsat Foot and Ankle Center of Fort Lee, LLC. The center offers convenient locationsin Fort Lee NJ, Ringwood NJ, Flushing Queens NY, Woodhaven NY, Brooklyn NY, and Forest Hills NY. Contact us at (201) 363-9844 and schedule an appointmenttoday!
