Three Common Bunion Treatment Options

A bunion is a deformity that causes people to develop bony lumps on the side of the big toe, thus causing its base joint to develop sideways. While the exact cause of bunions is unknown, most people develop them because of weak joints. They are also caused by joint illnesses, such as rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Patients with bunions usually exhibit various symptoms, including severe pain, stiffness of the big toe, difficulty walking, and swelling of the big toe's base joint. While people cannot prevent bunions from worsening, they can adopt various pain relief and management measures to relieve the pain. These measures include wearing comfortable and spacious shoes, using ice packs to cool the pain, and losing weight. People should also avoid wearing tight shoes with high heels since it can worsen the situation. People with bunions should visit an experienced podiatrist to receive the best bunion treatment options. Here are various bunion treatment options available to patients:

Insertion of Bunion Pads

The ideal bunion treatment option for people with mild cases of bunions is wearing the correct footwear. Bunion patients should always consider using flat, wide, and fitting shoes that are comfortable when walking. For instance, shoes with laces or adjustable straps allow people to adjust and relieve pressure when they become uncomfortable. Wearing tight, high-heeled, and pointed shoes exerts pressure on the feet, causing discomfort and increasing the chances of getting bunions. Usually, podiatrists also prescribe bunion pads to help people deal with bunions. They prevent the build-up of fiction, relieve pressure, provide instant pain relief, and enhance comfort. Those who prefer bunion pads as a bunion treatment option can obtain them at pharmacies or from podiatrists.

Taking Prescription Medicine

Some patients have severe cases of bunions that cannot be treated with bunion pads. Such patients take prescription medications to treat their symptoms. Doctors prescribe various medications, such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and cortisone injections, to help alleviate the pain and manage the bunion symptoms. Thus, patients who prefer relatively conservative bunion treatment options should consider getting prescription medications to solve the problem.

Undergoing Surgery

Most people avoid surgery for cosmetic reasons. They use it as a bunion treatment option when less aggressive treatment options have failed and the condition is affecting their daily lives. Bunion surgical treatment involves removing the swollen tissue around the big toe before straightening and aligning the joints permanently. You can still walk after bunion surgery despite the recovery period taking a few weeks. As such, those looking for the right bunion treatment option should consider going for surgery.


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