Have you decided that it's finally time to do something about your bunion pain? Making a few changes in your life and scheduling a visit
with your foot doctor are important steps that can help reduce your painful symptoms. San Antonio, TX, podiatrist Dr. Caroline Gaynor Elko of San Antonio Foot and Ankle Center offers treatments for common foot and ankle conditions, including bunions.
What can I do about bunion pain at home?
Although your bunion won't go away with home treatment, there a few things you can do to decrease pain and inflammation. Have you resisted making any changes to your usual routine because you don't want your bunions to take over your life? If you continue running despite the pain or stand frequently during the day, it will be difficult to get your pain under control. Try a different form of exercise that's easier on your feet, such as swimming, and avoid standing for long periods of time, if possible.
Finding shoes that fit is a particularly difficult challenge when you have bunions, but one that can make a significant difference in your symptoms. Continuing to wear tight shoes that rub against your bunion will trigger a never-ending cycle of pain and inflammation. The best shoes offer plenty of support for your foot and also provide ample room in the toe box.
Does your big toe now rest on top of your second and third toes? Applying adhesive pads to the toes can help you avoid developing painful corns and calluses due to constant friction.
Is stiffness a frequent problem? Toe exercises, such as scrunching a towel with your toes or attempting to pick up marbles with your toes, can help increase flexibility.
How can my San Antonio podiatrist help me?
When home treatment alone isn't enough to relieve your pain, your foot doctor can offer a few suggestions and treatments. Orthotics, custom-made shoe inserts, realign your foot and help reduce pain, while night splints will help keep the joints at the base of your big toes properly aligned while you sleep. Cortisone injections can be helpful in some cases, as can surgery. Surgery is usually recommended if your pain is severe or your symptoms interfere with your life.
Decrease your bunion pain with a visit to the foot doctor! Call San Antonio, TX, podiatrist Dr. Caroline Gaynor Elko of San Antonio Foot and Ankle Center at (210) 664-4700 to schedule an appointment.