Bunion Prevention & Exercises for Foot Pain Relief

Ok, we’re sure your first question is what are bunions? Then of course you are going to want to know how to prevent bunions or some ways to treat bunions. If this is you, then keep reading as our team touches on all of these and more. We also provide more in-depth information in each of these areas so you can learn more about each.

What are bunions?

Bunions, also called hallux valgus, are one of the most commonly diagnosed foot ailments. According to the Mayo Clinic, hallux valgus or a bunion is a bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of your big toe. It occurs when some of the bones in the front part of your foot move out of place. Similarly, the same bony bump can form on the outside of your foot at the base of your little toe and those are called bunionettes. Without proper foot care, bunions can lead to surgery being the only treatment.

For full details about what bunions are, what causes bunions and how to treat bunions our team has put together a full list of details on our website. Visit our bunion relief page to learn more. Curious about what causes bunions? Our team covered one of the biggest culprits in a recent blog on high heels and bunions.

What are some treatments for bunions?

One of the best ways to treat bunions is to prevent them in the first place. Below we cover some great ways to prevent bunions, but if you are reading this section you most likely already have one or have a bunion forming. One of the most common treatments involves changing up your footwear. Making sure your shoes provide plenty of space for your toes is the best way to stop your bunions from getting worse.

Another treatment for bunions involves icing your bunion either after you've been on your feet too long or if it becomes inflamed which can help relieve soreness and swelling. Pair that ice with some anti-inflammatory medication and you have a great combination to reduce the swelling and pain simultaneously.

If your bunion becomes too severe or goes untreated for too long, your doctor may advise that you need bunion surgery to correct the damage. There are many surgical procedures for bunions, and no one technique is best for every problem, so seeking the advice of a medical professional is always best when your pain becomes frequent or interferes with your daily activities.

How to prevent bunions

Bunions can be prevented, for the most part. While some people can be genetically more likely to develop bunions, there are some easy steps you can take to prevent them from occurring. A few of the most common ways to prevent bunions include properly fitting shoes, foot stretches, toe spacers that can be found in our foot alignment socks, exercises and rest.

In a recent article by Health Partners, they give a great perspective on how to prevent bunions. They agree that bunions are one of the most common foot problems, particularly among adults. And while you can get bunions at any age, some studies show that up to one-third of adults have them.

And if bunions or other foot problems run in your family, or you have certain medical conditions, you may be at a higher risk for getting bunions. Some of their top bunion prevention tips include your shoes, exercise, stretching and a few other everyday things you can do at home. Here is a link to their full post about how to prevent bunions.

With flip flops being one of the leading shoes that cause bunions and other foot pain, there are some great orthotic style flip flips that do provide the support your foot needs. Archies flip flops mold and conform to the shape of your foot while cradling and supporting your arches. This helps to put your feet in the most biomechanically appropriate position possible to alleviate the pain caused by traditional flip flops.

Following basic, everyday foot care tips can also help you take care of your feet on a regular basis. You will be able to enjoy more of your time instead of being in pain or constantly worrying about what will happen to your feet at the end of a long day. A great way to take care of those feet is by gently stretching out your toes with the soft spacers or a pair of foot alignment socks, your feet are able to release much of their tension and be ready to perform again the next day. One recommendation though is to use your socks consistently to feel the full benefit truly. 

Check back regularly as our team covers many other foot ailments, foot pain causes and treatments you can do in the comfort of your own home.