What’s the Best Choice for Bunion Treatment Without Surgery?
Feet.
Who among us doesn’t have a love-hate relationship with them? We love them in heels, and we love a foot massage. However, diagnosing foot problems is among the ickiest ways to spend an afternoon. Take bunions, for example. It’s a drag to look at your own feet and realize you have a bunion problem. You may even freak out a little at the odd appearance of a bunion, which looks like a minor foot deformity. But relax – you’re not on your way to becoming an elephant woman. Many women have this issue, and the treatment may not be as scary as you’re thinking.
What is a bunion, and why do you have one?
A bunion is a relatively minor class of foot deformity, characterized by the lateral deviation of the great toe, which seems to “point” in an unnatural direction. Along with the shift of the big toe, other signs of bunions include irritated skin around the bunion, the appearance of blisters and the deviation of the angle between the first and second metatarsal bones of the foot. For the most part, doctors believe genetics is the primary cause of this condition, though some theorize that bad footwear could also be responsible.
Naturally, there are cosmetic concerns about this condition. Whether you’re enjoying a romantic night at home or a relaxing day on the beach, you certainly don’t want to have to worry about what people are thinking about your feet! (Of course, bunions aren’t that bad, but you’re still self-conscious, aren’t you?)
Here’s another problem: finding a shoe size that’s going to fit you, bunions and all. You can’t simply ignore this issue, because if you buy a regular shoe size, you’re going to start hurting your little piggies.
Even worse than a cosmetic problem is the potential for pain. People who experience problems with bunions may also suffer from joint pain, redness, walking pains, arthritis of the big toe joint and an altered range of motion and discomfort whenever you apply pressure to the area.
What are your options for bunion treatment without surgery?
Bunion treatment is provided in three major ways: surgery, orthotics (specialty foot products) and a very conservative approach of simply resting your foot and putting ice on it. There are also some medications that can help the issue. Most people assume that the only option is the most expensive option – and if you’re dealing with an unscrupulous doctor, then of course they’re going to recommend the most expensive way to deal with the problem.
That said, you don’t have to opt for invasive surgery. You can treat a bunion problem with special orthotics, like the Bunion Bootie, for example. This is the first ultra-thin bunion brace in the United States. The product custom fits the individual so that the big toe is gently pulled back to its anatomically correct position temporarily. This also minimizes pain and tension in the toes. Better yet, this ultra thin design can be worn anywhere, even during strenuous exercise or running.
So ladies, love your feet by looking into treatment for bunions. For that matter, don’t curl your toes at the thought of surgery. Look to orthotics to provide pain relief and a better cosmetic option!