What Causes Bunion Pain?
Bunion pain is often caused by friction and pressure caused by ill-fitting footwear. People with bunions can wear regular footwear as long as they fit well, and provide plenty of room across the toes of the foot. The toe box is usually too narrow in shoes with high heels or pointy toes.
Significant pain and inflammation can be caused by bunions. A non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) may provide some relief. Foot soaks in hot water, with or without Epsom salts, can provide some relief from pain and inflammation. A topical analgesic, such as Biofreeze can be applied over the painful area for immediate temporary relief.
How to relieve bunion pain
Bunion orthotics, such as bunion pads and toe spacers, can be used to alleviate the pressure on the bunion and toes. A silicone bunion pad can reduce friction against the footwear. Bunion toe spacers separate the big toe from the second toe. Bunions cause the big toe to crowd the second toe. This can cause the big toe to lie under or on top of the second toe. The spacer helps prevent the second toe from developing hammertoe or painful calluses.
The use of these bunion regulators, soft bunion splints, can be helpful. The area of the splint that covers the bunion is well-cushioned. Bunion regulators separate the big toe from the second toe, which alleviates the pressure on the second toe. The regulator stretches the toe muscles affected by the bunion. Bunion regulators can be purchased in my office.
You do not need an appointment to browse our large selection of doctor-approved splints/pads/spacers/etc or prescription-strength pain relievers.
Bunion stretch exercises are one form of non-invasive treatment. These exercises are done to stretch and strengthen the muscles of the big toes. With feet together, place a large, thick rubber band around the big toes. Keeping the heels together, gently move the front of your feet apart, creating a V-shape. Hold the stretch for about ten seconds. Relax and repeat the stretch twenty times.
If non-invasive treatment methods fail to relieve the pain and inflammation, a bunionectomy or bunion removal surgery can be performed. There are no cures for bunions. However, custom orthotics (shoe inserts) can be inserted in your shoes to help prevent the deformity from becoming more severe. I highly recommend custom orthotics if you ARE NOT having pain. This simple device can help prevent the bunion from becoming painful. Prevention IS the best medicine! Call today to schedule an appointment (859) 264-1141!