Don’t let bunion pain determine how you live your life.

A bunion is a condition that affects the joint at the base of the big toe. Over time, the bunion will continue to grow, causing the big toe to lean inwards toward the rest of the toes. While this might not seem like a cause for concern, bunions can be painful and uncomfortable. Some people experience pain that’s so severe that it impacts their lives. If you’re currently battling bunion pain and looking for some relief, your Austin podiatrist recommends trying these handy tricks for beating your discomfort.

• Ice therapy: When you aren’t on your feet, make sure to elevate your foot and ice the painful joint for about 10 to 20 minutes at a time. Just be sure to wrap a cloth or towel around the ice so it’s not in direct contact with your skin.
• Medication: Most bunion pain can be reduced with over-the-counter NSAIDs like ibuprofen. Talk to your Austin podiatrist about the different OTC medications and which ones might help alleviate your discomfort.
• Orthotics and inserts: Opt for bunion pads or custom-made orthotics to help shift the weight while you walk and take pressure of your big toe. Talk to your Austin podiatrist about getting customized orthotics or about which types of inserts are right for you. Did you know that one study even found that orthotics did significantly reduce bunion pain in six months? If you notice that your shoes are rubbing against your bunion, you can also place moleskin between your joint and the shoes to reduce friction.
• Exercise: Exercise is a healthy lifestyle choice and you shouldn’t be made to live a sedentary life just because of your bunion. While endurance running might put too much pressure on your feet and leave you in pain, there are a variety of other exercises you can participate in that are low-impact and won’t hurt your bunions. We recommend activities such as cycling and swimming.
• Proper shoes: Finding the right shoes is vitally important for those dealing with bunions. Choose shoes with wide toe beds. Also, opt for flats or shoes with low heels that provide optimal arch support. Stay away from high heels or narrow shoes that can crowd toes. If you have a pair of shoes that don’t play nice with your bunion but you just can’t part with, consider taking them to the cobbler to have them stretched.

Don’t let bunions affect your day-to-day activities. Follow this advice from your Austin podiatrist and you’ll find your bunion pain is much easier to manage. If your bunion is causing you severe discomfort, call us today to schedule an appointment.