Bunion Relief Home Remedies

Bunion is a condition, wherein the bone of the big toe protrudes out abnormally due to overgrowth. As a result, the big toe bends towards other toes of the feet. Such an alignment puts an additional amount of pressure on the toe which makes activities like walking a painful affair.

This happens mainly because of wearing ill-fitting shoes for a prolonged period of time. It is more commonly found in women who wear high heels. In some people, it could be hereditary. The only method to correct this condition permanently is to remove it surgically.

However, many people are apprehensive to undergo a surgery, and hence they look for home remedies.

Usually, people tend to take pain killers to get relief from the pain. However, such medicines should not be taken for a long time as they have adverse effects on the health. Hence, you can try out one or more of the following home remedies to reduce the pain.

Application of ice on the affected area has a relieving effect on the pain and swelling. Do not apply the ice for more than 15 minutes at a stretch. After 15 minutes, take a break of half an hour and apply the ice pack all over again. Repeat this several times in a day. However, diabetics or those who have blood-circulation problems should not use ice on the foot.

Take some warm water in a tub and add some epsom salt into it. Soak your feet into this mixture for a few minutes daily. This is one of the best home remedies. The warmth of the water improves blood circulation to the foot and brings down the swelling.

A bunion splint should be placed between the big toe and the second toe at night. It helps keep the affected toe straight, and as a result there is no pressure on the smaller toes. Thus there is no pain. Many people claim that it can improve the alignment of the big toe. However, there is no scientific evidence behind this claim.

You should wear running shoes instead of your regular shoes since these shoes have larger space for the toes and at the same time provide a soft cushion to the toes. When at home try to go barefoot as it helps in better healing of the bunion. However, if you find it difficult to manage without shoes, then wear sandals and not slippers at home.

Sometimes bunions can be caused due to tight Achilles tendon. Therefore, stretching of the heels relieves the pressure from the underlying tendon and makes it flexible. Stand straight on your feet, stretch the heels, and hold it for about 10 seconds. This should be done several times in a day.

Clove oil contains an ingredient called eugenol which helps to desensitize the painful part of the bunions. Pour a few drops of clove oil on a cotton bandage and place it over the affected area, and you will feel the part getting numb. This should be done twice or thrice a day.

The consumption of pineapples helps decrease the bunion size since it contains bromelain, which is a protein-dissolving enzyme that reduces swelling.

The aforementioned home remedies will help you to keep the pain in check. However, you have to ensure that you are wearing the right kind of shoes to prevent the recurrence of the pain. Always wear well-fitting shoes that can give your feet adequate comfort.

Disclaimer: This story is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.