What are bunions?
Regular bunions are bony bumps on the side of your foot, just at the base of the big toe joint. They can be extremely painful and uncomfortable.
Prevention is key!
You can be more prone to developing bunions for several different reasons; they may run in your family or be caused by inflammatory conditions or foot deformities, the most effective method of prevention is to avoid certain activities or footwear, such as high heels or narrow shoes, which may lead to inflammation of the joint.
How to treat a bunion? - Treatment options
Bunions can only be removed by surgery, but nevertheless, surgery is rarely necessary. Their progression and symptoms can usually easily be managed and treated conservatively; often at home.
When should I seek medical advice?
You should always see your doctor if you have diabetes since your foot problems might have a different cause.
If the pain is persistent or so strong that it affects your daily activities, you should see a doctor. You should also seek medical advice if the condition doesn’t improve after a couple of weeks of home treatment or if the condition worsens. Your doctor will advise you regarding the best options for you to manage your bunions. Depending on the severity, your doctor might recommend orthotics or refer you to a surgeon in order to discuss the option of surgically removing your bunion and correcting the underlying condition.
Frequently asked questions
What are bunions?
Bunions are hard lumps on the big toe joint. They can be incredibly painful.
What causes bunions?
Inward pressure on the toes can lead to bunions, as the toe points towards the foot and the joint is pushed out. Tight and uncomfortable shoes can also aggravate this condition.
How to treat bunions?
Surgery is the only permanent cure. Fortunately, you can minimise friction and rubbing on the hardened area.
COMPEED Bunion Plasters cushion the skin to prevent further rubbing, providing instant relief from pressure and hardened skin.
How can I prevent bunions?
It may be possible to delay the progression of bunions by taking extra care of your feet. Avoid unnecessary pressure by wearing properly fitting shoes, especially near the joint and toe area. For those occasions where you might wish to wear less comfortable shoes, cushion the area to minimise pressure.