What to Do about Bunions
Most of us are familiar with bunions and how they appear. They usually appear as lumps or an abnormal enlargement on the joint at the base of your big toe. Bunions can also be painful which causes discomfort especially when wearing closed shoes.
Bunions can cause swelling leading to tenderness, redness and even severe pain at the affected area. This discomfort can make it difficult to perform day to day activities. Although bunions are primarily hereditary, there are several things you can do to slow down the progression.
For severe cases of bunions, a visit to a podiatrist is recommended. Dr. Scott Russell is a podiatrist who specializes in helping people with bunions and other foot conditions.
If you find yourself suffering from a bunion, here are a few helpful tips:
Choose comfortable shoes that are well-fitted for your foot’s size. Do not force yourself to wear shoes that are too tight because it might cause toe compression and can lead to bunion formation. Instead, look for shoes that have a wide toe area that lets your toes move freely.
Avoid or limit the use of high-heels. Heels that are greater than 2 inches in height will put pressure and stress on your toes.
Using custom orthotic shoe inserts will also help slow down bunion formation, especially if there is excessive pronation when you are walking or running.
Stay away from activities that cause pressure on your feet. For example, one activity that accelerates bunion formation is running.
Keep a healthy weight that is recommended for you. If you are over-weight, there is an increased pressure on your feet and it can lead to bunion development.
After a busy day at work and your feet are dead tired, treat your feet for a cold therapy as it will decrease pain and discomfort. Apply ice packs on the area for 10-15 minutes every 2-3 hours.
A gel-filled pad or mole skin can be used for small bunions.
Consult Dr. Scott Russell for more information on bunions and possible treatments. At Dr Scott Russell Podiatry & Orthotics located in Vancouver, Delta, BC & Sherwood Park, Calgary, AB our podiatrist specializes in helping people suffering from bunions. To request an appointment contact us today.