One of most common question asked of our podiatrists is, how to shrink bunions without surgery. The answer is, Yes! there are natural ways we can relieve bunions pain without surgery. In fact, without surgery treatment for bunion is always the best and the first step because with help of home remedies and a bit help of the doctor there are effective and easy ways to manage the pain. Here’s how to shrink bunions naturally at home:
What are bunions?
Firstly, you need to understand what are bunions? A bunion (hallux valgus) is a bump on the side of your foot on the big toe joint. When the bones and muscles in your foot are out of straight position it can create a bony bump. If you think you have a bunion on your foot, you are not alone, this is the common problem, they affect one of third person in the world.
Causes of bunions
The exact cause of bunion is unknown, there are many possibilities. Some experts think that bunions are passed down through DNA based or your foot shape. Another experts think that the cause of bunion is used the tight fitting or narrow shoes force your toes into unnatural position which put more pressure on your foot joints.
After working on the developing foot problems like bunion, the professionals said that the main cause of bunion problem is the people who stand out of the day put extra pressure on their feet like teachers, nurses, and servers.
Home remedies to shrink the bunion naturally
Bunions can be a source of continuously pain and discomfort, but there are natural methods to shrink the bunion at home. This step-by-step guide will you through approaches that focus on decreasing the bunion size and manage the pain. Using these home remedies to shrink the bunion:
1.Message and exercise
One of the simplest way to treat the bunion is message or exercise your feet. You should give a few minutes to your feet everyday. After long time of standing or walking, there are simple exercises you can do to relieve the pain of bunion.
The one of the best exercise for bunion relief is toe stretch. You need only to point your toes straight ahead 5 to 10 seconds, then curl them for 5 to 10 seconds. Repeat this process for ten times. Another tool for this stretch is towel. Curl your toes around a little towel you have laid on the floor. Put the towel then towards you. You may repeat this stretch 10 times in a day.
The foot exercise provide a simple way to treat the bunion pain without surgery. The exercise will not get rid of this pain but it will provide some bunion relief.
2.Take a paracetamol
If your bunion causing pain, the Orthopaedics advise to take a paracetamol or ibuprofen. This type of anti-inflammatory medication will provide some bunion pain relief.
3.Using ice and heat therapy
- Ice therapy: Ice applied the bunion helps to lower inflammation or dull discomfort. Wrap ice in thin cloth and cover the affected area about 10 to 15 minutes. Repeat many time a day, especially any activity that may caused swelling.
- Heat therapy: Heat can relax the muscles and improve blood circulation around the bunion. Use a warm towel or heating pad for the pain relief of bunion. Apply heat towel for 10 to 20 minutes but make sure it is not too hot to prevent burn.
4.Value of right footwear
The type of shoes you wear is an important role in the management of bunions. Shoes that not fit properly may worsen bunion pain and perhaps help to cause them.
- Wide toe box: Select shoes that provide enough space for your toes. A wide toe box helps in lower pressure in the bunion and prevent further worsening of the condition.
- Avoid high heels: High heels can force your toes into unnatural position and put extra pressure in the front of your foot, worsening a bunion.If you must wear heels, choose those less than two inches.
- Cushioned insole: Use cushioned insoles or arch supports to help your weight be more evenly over your feet, therefore lowering the pressure on your bunion. Most shoe stores or pharmacies will carry these.
5. Bunion pads and splints
- Bunion pads: They are protective pads that can be placed over the bunion to cushion the area and help to avoid friction with your shoes. They come in various materials like gel or foam and they could be sticky or strap on. Bunion pads help to reduce the direct pressure on the bunion, so relieving pain and stopping the bunion from worsening.
- Bunion Splints: Bunion splints are devices are designed to gently stretch the big toe away from the other toe, therefore correcting its alignment. Usually, they are worn at night and can be worn during the day, if it comfortable and if they fit well with your footwear. The goal is to straighten the toe to reduce the pain and slow the progression of the bunion.
6. Maintain a healthy weight
Carrying a extra weight can put more pressure on your feet, worsening a bunion. Maintaining healthy weight can reduce the pressure on your feet and help manage your bunion. Eating a balanced diet and keeping active can help you achieve or maintain a healthy weight.
Conclusion
Although natural techniques can help control the symptoms and stop them from worsening, bunions can be uncomfortable and painful. Start with applying cold and heat therapy to relieve the pain, completing foot exercises, and sporting the correct shoes. Additionally helpful are herbal medicines and frequent foot rubs. Managing bunions naturally mostly depends on keeping a good weight and being aware of your foot condition. Remember, although these techniques can help control the problem, they could not totally reduce a bunion. See a healthcare provider for guidance if your bunion still causes notable pain or discomfort.
