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Alternate Treatments for Bunions

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.

  1. 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.

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