Bunion diagram
A bunion is a progressive disorder caused by misalignment of the bones in the feet. While surgery is a common method of treatment and ultimately the best way to cure the condition, there are a variety of non-surgical treatments to aid in the alleviation of pain caused by a bunion.
Free Treatment
Simple home treatments include icing the bunion for 10 minutes each evening and avoiding activity that exacerbates the condition, such as prolonged standing, walking or running. Additionally, aloe vera gel has been known to ease the pain caused by an inflamed bunion.
Shoes
As a bunion is a foot disorder, one of the first lines of defense and treatment is proper footwear and foot care. These include arch supports, which transfer pressure off the bunion; bunion splints, which hold the big toe straight and prevent the first and second toes from pushing against each other; and a silicone toe separator that holds the first and second toes apart.
Drugs/Padding
A topical pain reliever, such as Orthogel Cold Therapy Relief Gel, can be used to help minimize the pain caused by a bunion, while a bunion pad provides cushioned support for the bunion itself. Many contain special oils and moisturizers to soften the skin and prevent the formation of scars.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can be used to prevent and relieve pain. The injection of corticosteroids into the inflamed bursa (fluid-filled sac found in joints) has been proven useful, though this method of treatment is extremely rare.
