Hallux valgus, more commonly known as bunion, is the most common foot deformity. Experts estimate that between 25% and 35% of people have this painful problem. The staff at Alliance Foot and Ankle have helped hundreds of patients who were dealing with significant pain from bunions. There are several ways you can ease the pain of bunions. Dr. Richard Nichols and Dr. Joseph Harvey are happy to discuss your options with you in person, but until then, you may find the information in this post helpful.
What are bunions, anyway?
A bunion forms on the joint that connects your big toe to your foot. The end of your toe begins to slant inward, against your smaller toes, which pushes your joint outward.
In most cases bunions are genetic, however, improper shoes can also be problematic. Narrow shoes with pointy toes, especially high heels, can trigger or worsen a bunion.
A different kind of bunion, called a bunionette, can form on the outside of your foot on the joint that connects your pinky toe to your foot.
Regardless of whether you have a bunion or a bunionette, it’s possible it will hurt. After all, with each step you take, your forefoot bears your full weight.
What stops the pain?
Your bunion may not hurt at all at first, but if it continues to develop and the bony bump grows, it’s likely to become painful. There are several things you can do that can help.
Check Your Shoes
Personal style is important, but make sure your shoes give your toes plenty of room. Tighter toe boxes are bad for bunions, and if you must wear a heel, opt for something wider and lower.
Get Out the Ice
Ice can ease the inflammation and lessen your pain. Try icing your foot for 10-20 minutes at a time. Your swelling should go down and your foot should hurt less.
Over-the-Counter Pain Medicines
You should always check with your doctor to make sure any medication is okay for you. If they are safe, over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help ease bunion pain.
Injections
Dr. Nichols or Dr. Harvey may suggest a cortisone injection to help control the inflammation of your bunion. An injection can help with your symptoms, but it isn’t a cure. The inflammation will eventually return.
Orthotics
Special inserts for your shoes that help keep your toes in a straight position may be helpful in correcting your bunion.
Bunion Pads
Specially made pads can help ease the pain, too. Usually, they are made from gel or moleskin and can provide cushioning and protection against friction.
Surgery
Depending on your situation, surgery might be the most effective treatment for your bunion. Dr. Nichols and Dr. Harvey have both successfully surgically corrected hundreds of bunions.
Neuro Stimulator
We offer another, drug-free approach for dealing with pain, the Implantable Neurostimulator Pulse Generator. This cutting-edge technology works by disrupting the pain signals from your brain.
Gentle electrical waves stimulate your nerves. Neurostimulation has been shown to be highly effective for treating pain. If it’s an option for treating your bunion pain, our staff is happy to answer your questions and explain in detail how it works.
Learn More
You don’t have to just live with bunion pain. Book an appointment at Alliance Foot and Ankle Specialists today. We can make treatment suggestions based on your specific situation after an evaluation. You can now request an appointment online or by calling the location of your choice.