The care of the bunion involves measures to prevent its worsening and prevent inflammation, as it happens due to a deviation of the fingers towards the inside of the foot, misaligning the bones and joints of the region. So, it is important to follow some tips like:
- Use orthopedic insoles, or splints, indicated by the orthopedist, to reduce the contact of the hunted with the bunion, reducing the weight on the region; Avoid wearing tight shoes, heels or pointed toes, as they deform the foot and put tension on the bunion, and comfortable shoes that accommodate the feet well should be preferred; Place a finger separator between the thumb and the second finger, preferably at night, as they reposition the fingers correctly during sleep and reduce pain and inflammation; Use slippers indoors, instead of closed shoes, reducing friction on the region; Do a foot massage at the end of the day, with almond oil or scalding your feet with warm water, to reduce pain.
The person with a bunion should also consult an orthopedist to start the most appropriate treatment, and, in addition, physical therapy twice a week may be indicated, which is very useful for stretching and reducing pain.
Exercises for bunion
Foot exercises are done under the guidance of a physiotherapist, as a way to improve the flexibility and muscle strength of the feet, which can help to realign the joints and reduce the pain caused by the bunion.
It is recommended to look for walks with bare feet, as a way to activate the foot sensors and relax the muscles. In addition, some exercises that can be practiced include:
Exercise 1
Lay out a towel on the floor, and make movements to bring it to you with just the movements of your toes, and repeat several times.
Exercise 2
Do the opposite movement of the previous exercise, trying to move the towel away with just the movements of your fingers, repeating several times;
Exercise 3
Sit down, stretch one leg, lifting the foot, and rotate with the big toe, clockwise and counterclockwise, repeating the movement 15 times on each side. Then repeat with the opposite foot;
Exercise 4
Use an elastic band to attach a thumb to the other, and make movements of opening and closing the fingers, or adduction and abduction, working with strength and flexibility. Repeat the movements about 20 times a day
Check out these and other bunion exercises in the following video:
How to care for the inflamed bunion
The best way to treat the inflamed bunion is to rest and apply ice packs for 5 to 10 minutes, about 3 times a day, as a way to reduce swelling, redness and pain.
In cases of severe pain, it is necessary to consult the orthopedist, as it may be necessary to use medicines, such as anti-inflammatory drugs, in ointment or pills. In addition, if there is no improvement or if there are episodes of inflammation repeatedly, the doctor may recommend surgery to correct the bunion. Know when it is needed and how bunion surgery is performed.
