How to Prevent a Bunion From Getting Worse?

Updated on: November 15, 2023

A bunion is a bony protrusion on the inside of the foot. This is a common foot deformity that occurs in one out of three Americans. The condition starts with little to no symptoms but becomes worse over time. So, how to prevent a bunion from getting worse? There are several conservative methods you can try.

What Are the Symptoms of an Inflamed Bunion?

Bunion deformities are – in most cases – inflamed. Changes in bone alignment affect the surrounding soft tissues and the big toe joint, and inflammation is a natural consequence of that. The most common symptoms that come with bunions are pain, swelling, tenderness, redness, and warmness of the skin on top of the bunion. All of this can affect the mobility of the big toe joint and interfere with walking, running, or other physical activities.

What Should You Do to Prevent It From Getting Even Worse?

Bunions keep getting worse over time – there’s no denying that. The only thing that can help you get rid of them completely is bunion surgery, but that’s not the first line of treatment. If your deformity isn’t too severe just yet, your foot doctor will recommend several methods to combat pain and inflammation.

Consider Using Orthotics and Inserts

Shoe inserts or orthotics (which can be custom-made or over-the-counter, whatever works for you) can make it easier to stand and walk by reducing pain and discomfort. Bunion protectors have a similar effect – they reduce friction while wearing shoes. Additionally, you can try toe separators – they should be put between the big toe and the second toe, preventing the big toe from drifting.

Get Proper Footwear

Don’t underestimate the effect of poor footwear – it can easily trigger a bunion and make your symptoms worse. You need to be careful and choose proper shoes for bunions – they need to have wide and deep toe boxes, great arch support, and flexible soles. Needless to say, high heels should be avoided at all costs.

Maintain a Healthy Weight

When you put on weight, that affects your feet – the additional pressure surely won’t help with managing bunion symptoms. If possible, try to keep your weight in a healthy range to avoid excessive pressure on your feet.

When Should You Visit Your Doctor?

If you feel like your bunion is getting worse, don’t hesitate to contact your podiatrist and come in for an evaluation. You shouldn’t put off seeing the doctor – the more you wait, the stronger the pain will be. Your doctor will examine you and recommend the best course of action. It can be a non-surgical treatment, but in many cases, bunion surgery will be a necessary next step – you should be ready for this possibility.

Discuss the Surgery With Your Doctor in Miami

If your doctor has determined that it’s time you consider bunion surgery, it will be crucial for you to understand what this procedure entails. When you come in for an appointment with your podiatrist, be sure to ask anything you want to know about the surgery. You should entrust your care to our Luxe Foot Surgery team – our doctors are more than capable of treating bunions. Contact us to book your free first consultation!

FAQ

How Can I Shrink My Bunions Naturally?

You can’t shrink bunions naturally – the best you can do is use orthotics or bunion pads to help manage the symptoms. However, this is a temporary solution. Bunions get progressively worse, and eventually, most cases require surgical correction.

How Do You Fix a Bunion Before It Gets Bad?

The only way to fix a bunion is to get a bunionectomy. If your symptoms aren’t so bad yet, your doctor may recommend managing them with conservative treatments.