A hallux valgus is a bony protrusion on the side of the feet. Bunions are usually located on the side of the large toe. However, they can also appear on the other side, at the small toe.
Bunions can be painful and cause problems with your feet or mobility. There are many ways to reduce pain and eliminate bunions.
Bunion Symptoms If you notice a bunion in your foot, it is likely that you are experiencing some sort of problem. Bunions can cause internal and external symptoms.
Bunions can cause the following symptoms.
- The protrusion of the toes on the outside edge of the foot.
- The bunion may be painful or sensitive.
- The bunion is burning.
- Calluses or hammertoes at the bottom of the feet.
- Corns or other skin irregularities on the feet.
Bunions are easy to diagnose. A doctor can diagnose bunions by simply looking at your foot. You may be asked by a doctor if you feel any pain or sensitivity in the affected area. The doctor may also check for coexisting conditions such as calluses and corns.
Bunion Treatments
Bunions are only treated if they cause pain. A combination of medications and lifestyle changes is usually enough to resolve a bunions.
You will be prescribed an OTC pain reliever like Ibuprofen by your doctor. Your doctor may also recommend that you assess your footwear to make sure it is appropriate for your feet. Unfitting shoes may cause bunions.
Some devices such as toe spacers or bunion pads can be worn to reduce pressure on the bunions and allow them to heal. A doctor can prescribe night splints to correct the alignment of your toes while you sleep if these problems are bothering your daily life.
A doctor will only suggest surgery in severe cases. It is usually the last option and people with bunions rarely need to undergo surgery.
You can also take simple steps at home to reduce discomfort and promote healing of a bunions. These actions include:
- Remove your shoes whenever possible. Elevate your feet in order to reduce swelling and inflammation.
- Ice packs can be applied for up to 15 minutes at a time to relieve extreme pain and swelling.
- To reduce swelling and pain, soak your feet in cool water.
Conclusion
Bunions are painful but not dangerous. They can be treated at home with simple remedies. Surgery is only required in very rare instances to cure a bunions. In most cases, oral medications, devices that realign the feet, and home remedies are all you need to get rid of a bunions and get back on your feet!
