How to Manage Bunion Pain Without Foot Surgery

Dr. Brian Nagy | June 2nd, 2017

Posted In: Bunions

Bunions can be extremely painful, especially if you aren’t as active as you should be. Bunion pain can be easily managed without the need for surgery if you take the following points into consideration. Learning to take care of your feet will help you to effectively manage foot and bunion pain on a long-term basis. If you noticed bunions have started to form, you may not be able to stop them, but you can improve the condition of your feet in an attempt to manage the pain.

Wear the Right Size and Type of Shoe

The right size and type of shoe will take the pressure off of the bunion and allow enough room for the toes to move without being cramped. A proper fitting shoe supports the arch of the foot, fitting snugly around the heel. Avoid shoes that are tight and restrict the movement of your feet. This can increase your pain and actually cause the problem to get worse.

Use Bunion Pads and Orthotics

Use bunion pads to protect the bunion from rubbing against the side or top of the toe. Along with the bunion pads, put gel orthotics in the bottoms of your shoes. These act as shock absorbers and prevent the shock of walking from placing undue pressure on sensitive areas of the feet. Visiting a New Hampshire podiatrist will allow you to be fitted for an orthotic that offers support and helps to maintain maximum comfort.

Warm Water Soaks

Warm water soaks can soothe the pain and discomfort of tired feet. The warm moisture helps to increase blood flow to the feet and relaxes the muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Soaking your feet in a whirlpool foot bath can also be beneficial. The pulsating jets sends water directly to where the pain is, allowing the tissues to relax and the pain to subside.

Use Ice Packs

Ice packs can help to reduce inflammation if the area around the bunion begins to swell. By elevating the foot and placing an ice pack over the area that hurts, you can relieve your bunion pain and give your feet a chance to relax after a long day. Using ice packs on your feet for an hour or so at night can dramatically reduce the discomfort you feel, especially if you are forced to stand on your feet all day long.

Exercise Your Feet

Simple stretching exercises increase blood flow to your feet and help to keep inflammation to a minimum. Stretching exercises also keep the feet flexible. By stretching the muscles, tendons, and ligaments, you will encounter less pain and your feet will not be as stiff when you wake up in the morning. One of the best ways to fully exercise your feet is to walk in sand. The sand offers resistance and it conforms to your feet adding the right amount of pressure. It also encourages your feet to flex as you walk.

Taking care of your feet is the best way to keep them healthy and pain-free. The ultimate goal is to maintain proper form and function of the feet so that you are able to work and play in comfort. When bunion pain begins to affect your quality of life, you need to begin to make positive lifestyle changes that allow you to continue living your life to its fullest.

Our New Hampshire podiatrists can help guide you so that you make positive changes that will improve the health of your feet. If you would like to learn more about how to manage your bunion pain, contact our office today!

At Nagy Footcare, our best day is when you wake up with no foot pain.