Bunions are a structural deformity of the bones and joint where they meet at the base of the big toe. The area around the bunion often becomes enlarged, puffy or swollen, tender, raw and red. Bunions can be caused by genetic defect or by wearing ill fitting shoes, having a constant stress on the joint of the big toe, or a combination of all the factors. Bunion care is very important to minimize the pain and damage the condition.
Bunion care starts with one of the factors which can contribute to the condition in the first place—shoes. Wear looser fitting, comfortable shoes with little or no heel. It’s best to especially avoid shoes that narrow at the toes as this will just cause the greater to bend even more toward the second toe. For better bunion care wear socks that offer the skin on the affected area some protection. Cotton is the best material for the socks if possible since this is a breathable material.
There are many different appliances for bunion care and most of these are very affordable.
- An adhesive guard can be placed to along the side of the foot to protect the area round the bunion.
- A bunion comforter can be fitted around the toe and the side of the toe for bunion care.
- A toe alignment splint can be fitted to the toe to correct the bend.
- A bunion sling can correct the bunion by reducing the pressure on the joint while also protecting the area around the bunion.
- A bunion sleeve works well for bunion care as it comfortable protects the toe joint while also correcting the bend.
- A bunion brace helps correct the misalignment of the joint while offering protection.
Bunion care can also mean having surgery to correct the problem. Surgery for bunion care can mean shortening the toe, correcting the bend by reducing the joint damage, or other measures as a doctor sees fit. After surgery bunion care will mean using crutches for 6-8 weeks and staying off the foot as much as possible for the first few days. Even after surgery attention should be taken to always wear proper fitting footwear that puts no pressure on the greater toe joint.