Foot Exercises
Bunion Exercises
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How do you get rid of bunions?
Unfortunately, once a bunion has formed, there is no way of reversing the structural change of position. We look at steps to reduce the speed that a bunion may progressively deteriorate, as well as effective management strategies that can reduce the size of the bump on your big toe as a portion of this is inflammation.
To reduce bunion size and deterioration, consider the following:
- Wear cushioned, wide-fitting shoes
- Avoid high heels
- Strengthen the muscles of the foot and ankle
- Avoid impact activity
- Apply ice to your toe in the evenings
How do you get Bunions?
Some people are born with bunions, referred to as Congenital Bunions, while others develop them in their teenage years, known as Adolescent bunions. At the same time, an adult bunion can form from factors such as flat feet, poorly fitted shoes, high heels, arthritis, hallux limitus or poor foot mechanics
Can Bunions be corrected without surgery?
We advise caution when considering bunion surgery. Bunion irritation and redness can be reduced with conservative treatment, but surgery is the only effective method of correcting the position of a bunion. We recommend at least 3 months of non-surgical treatment under a physical therapist’s guidance in the initial instance as bunion surgery can be painful, have a prolonged recovery time and a high percentage of bunions return after surgery.
At what age do Bunions develop?
Bunions can, unfortunately, develop at any age. Congenital bunions lead to babies being born with a bunion; adolescent bunions occur in 10-15-year-olds, while adult bunions are more common over 50 but can form at any age.
Is 60 too old for Bunion surgery?
It is essential to consider the health of the joint with bunion surgery. If someone is of good medical health, 60 is not too old to have bunion surgery. For example, a 40-year-old who is obese with severe arthritis in both compartments of the MTP is unlikely to experience a good outcome from bunion surgery while a 70 or 80-year-old might be an excellent candidate for surgery if they have mild changes within the MTP joint and are of good health.
What is Bunion pain like?
Patients describe burning pain with a sharp stabbing sensation when they describe their bunion pain. In severe cases, patients experience numbness of the big toe as local nerve endings become irritated.
Is Epsom salt good for Bunions?
Epsom salt can relax surrounding muscles and soothe bunion pain, providing short-term relief for bunions, but it cannot cure or correct a bunion.
Should I get a wide shoe if I have a bunion?
Yes, we recommend a cushioned, wide shoe for anyone with a bunion as it promotes optimal foot mechanics, reduces compression and deviation of the big toe and absorbs impact when walking.
Who is prone to Bunions?
Women are more susceptible to bunions than men. Those with a family history of bunions have a 90% likelihood of developing a bunion compared to those without a family history of bunions.
Physiotherapy with James McCormack
This is not medical advice. We recommend a consultation with a medical professional such as James McCormack. He offers Online Physiotherapy Appointments for £45.
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