Bunions: Alternative Treatments and Relief Options

A bunion is bump that develops on the joint at the base of the big toe. The causes of this bony bump includes wearing tight fitting shoes. Shoe changes are a common treatment for bunions but alternate treatment methods are available.

Common Treatment

• According to the Mayo Clinic, people with a bunion often get good results from wearing comfortable, roomy shoes that have a large amount of space between the toes. Bunion sufferers should not wear shoes with heels higher than 2 1/4 inches.

Shoe Inserts

• Orthotic shoe inserts can relieve pain, reduce abnormal foot movements and keep bunions from worsening, says the Mayo Clinic.

Bunion Treatment

• Patients may stick a bunion pad around the bunion to reduce pain and protect the bunion while it heals. Bunion inflammation may be relieved by applying an ice pack two or three times a day.

Medication

• Bunion pain may be relieved with over the counter medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or acetaminophen, says the Mayo Clinic. Doctors may administer cortisone injections to relieve severe pain.

Surgery

• According to the Mayo Clinic, doctors may surgically remove bunion tissue or straighten a misaligned big toe if a bunion does not respond to other forms of treatment.