Friday, June 26, 2009

Reduce Pain From A Bunion

Reduce Pain From a Bunion


While surgery is the only way to get rid of a bunion for good, the pain and discomfort it causes can be managed effectively using relatively simple means. In addition to making wiser footwear choices, you can use orthopedics and medicines to reduce the pain from a bunion. Read on to learn reduce pain from a bunion.


Instructions


1. Soak the affected foot in hot water after a long stint wearing shoes or whenever pain becomes bothersome. While this is not a primary treatment for pain, it can be an effective supplement to other treatments and is particularly useful if your bunion is small or relatively new.


2. Apply ice to the affected joint and keep your foot elevated as a supplement or alternative to soaking it in hot water. Ice is particularly useful when the joint becomes swollen due to physical irritation.


3. Reduce pressure on your feet by removing your shoes whenever it is not absolutely necessary for you to wear them.


4. Keep your toe, foot joints and muscles loose by using exercises designed for bunion sufferers. Exercising the foot can prevent the severity of the chronic pain often experienced by people with bunions. The Dr. Foot website contains a helpful list of recommended foot exercises. See the Resources section below for a link.


5. Speak to your podiatrist about the various orthopedic inserts and devices that can be used to treat bunions. Bunion splints, cushions and heel cups can be worn inside the shoe to ease the pressure on your feet and ensure your foot's proper posture. Gelled toe spacers and toe separators can prevent the bunion from worsening, and a bunion regulator can help you stretch your toe and foot muscles during the night.


6. Get a pair of shoes that fit properly. Think wide and spacious for the toe regions of your shoes, and don't wear shoes that constrict your foot in any way. Insoles can also be added to ensure a proper fit and reduce irritation.

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