A bunion is a bony lump that forms on the side of the foot. While surgery is the only route to get rid of them for good, there are other methods that you can try to ease any pain that they cause. Bunions can make the simplest of tasks an impossible challenge, so here are five ways to shrink your bunions.
Change Your Shoes
If you are experiencing severe pain with your bunions, adjusting your shoes could provide relief and take the pressure off. It’s advised to pick shoes that have a flexible, wide sole which will add an extra layer of support to your feet. Make sure that there is enough room in the toe box, so your bunion doesn’t rub against the shoe. Ideal shoes include sandals, soft leather, and athletic shoes which will provide space and support for your bunions.
Try Bunion Pads
Although they tend to be more effective for mild to moderate bunions, a bunion pad can help shrink all size bunions. Placing a silicone pad between your big toe and second toe will provide relief when pressure begins to build up against your second toe. You can purchase bunion pads from your local pharmacy, and they can be placed in any kind of footwear.
Try to Lose Weight
There are numerous health benefits that you can gain from losing weight. If you have extra pounds, you may find that losing weight can help with pain and swelling that is commonly associated with bunions. If you are serious about shifting the pounds and aren’t sure where to start, it’s advised to contact your doctor who can give you more guidance and support. Alongside lowering blood pressure, the risk of diabetes, and improving posture, losing weight may be able to shrink your bunions.
Make Your Foot Muscles Stronger
Not only will regular exercise help strengthen your foot muscles, incorporating daily exercise into your routine can ease the pain of bunions too. The last thing you want to do is overload the bunion, so try to take things slow and steady to avoid doing further damage. Sitting up straight in a chair with your feet flat on the floor and massaging the arch of your foot can provide relief and comfort.
Bunion Surgery
If you have found that none of the suggestions above are helping to shrink your bunions or provide relief, your physician may advise bunion surgery. The reasons for bunion surgery is to readjust the bone, tendons, nerves, and ligaments in order for your big toe to be brought back to its original place. Many people believe that bunion correctors can sort out bunion issues, but they can’t. Talk to your doctor for more information.
Bunions are not only uncomfortable and painful; they can have a negative impact on your quality of life. Although we’re unable to prevent bunions, in most situations, there are numerous things that you can do to either shrink or get rid of them for good.