It’s actually quite simple and easy to manage bunion symptoms when they happen.
If bunions run in your family, then brace yourself because you may be next. While people often associate the development of bunions with wearing skyscraper-high heels and tight, poorly fitted shoes, you may be surprised to hear that genetics may play more of a role than you thought. From the office of our Jersey City, NJ, podiatrist, Dr. Edward Tjoe, find out more about bunions and how to manage your symptoms for the long term.
Evaluate Your Shoes
The shoes you wear can make or break your foot health. Your feet take quite the beating day in and day out and it’s important that they get the proper cushioning and support they need. Of course, when you have a bunion you also want to make sure that the shoes don’t put pressure on the deformity while also providing the proper fit. A good rule of thumb is to avoid high heels (anything over 2 inches) and toss out old, worn shoes that no longer give your feet ample protection and stability.
Consider Using Shoe Inserts
Shoe inserts, or orthotics may also be able to give your feet that Cloud 9 feeling when you slip into your shoes. Custom orthotics made specifically by our Jersey City are designed to combat your foot problems, whether you are an athlete or something battling bunion pain. Shoe inserts can help redistribute weight more evenly to prevent unnecessary pressure and weight on the bunion.
Brace or Splint the Foot
If you notice that your big toe has started to lean in toward the smaller toes, then you can only imagine that this structural imbalance and misalignment could cause other problems for the health of your feet. This is why bracing or splinting the foot may be all you need to realign it while on the go or even while sleeping. This is a great way to prevent bunion-related pain and discomfort. If you aren’t sure how to properly splint your foot, don’t hesitate to ask us.
Ice and Rest
Sometimes even with the best of care, your bunions still cause problems. If your feet are screaming out maybe it’s time you listened to them. This is the perfect excuse to take a break, prop your feet up and ice that angry bunion. Icing it for about 10 to 15 minutes at a time is often all you need to deaden the pain.
A bunion doesn’t have to be the end of the world. With these simple solutions you may be able to prevent it from getting worse. Of course, if you have questions about caring for your bunion at any point don’t hesitate to turn to our foot care specialists in Jersey City, NJ.
