How to Relieve Your Bunion Pain

There are more than 4 million Americans who visit the podiatrist to get help with bunions. These bumps form on the inside of your foot and might make it uncomfortable to walk or stand for long periods of time. If you have bunions, keep reading to figure out how to get rid of your pain:

Ice the Bunion

Many people find that applying cold pressure to the bunion can help to relieve the pain. You should try to ice the area a few times a day to minimize the discomfort. If you are still feeling pain when you walk, you might want to try to keep the ice applied for longer periods of time.

Change Your Shoes

Sometimes wearing bigger shoes can help to relieve some of the pressure on your bunion, which might decrease your pain. You should try to find shoes that have a wider toe box or wear sandals that leave the part of the foot with the bunion open. You can also line the shoe with moleskin or foam rubber to cushion the bunion while you walk. If you can find shoes that do not rub the area near the bunion, you will have less pain.

Visit the Foot Specialist

If your bunion problems continue, it might be time to schedule an appointment with the foot doctor. The podiatrist will probably suggest that you wear orthotics. He or she will also give you some exercises that can help you learn to walk in a manner that does not cause the bunion to get any worse. If your bunions have already progressed to a really bad state, the doctor might suggest bunion removal surgery.

You expect a lot from your foot and ankles, which is why it is important to take the time to properly care for them. Relieving bunion pain makes it more comfortable to walk and to stand. It can even prevent more serious foot issues. Talk to your foot and ankle specialist to get more advice about caring for your lower body.