Although there are thousands of bunion product reviews available online, unfortunately there is no miracle product which is going to cure your bunions. Bunion correctors, bunion splints and toe separators can all make living with bunions more bearable, but their effects are short-lived. Guidance from the NHS suggests that you should visit a GP if these home treatments do not work.
Proven Treatments for Bunions
Now we’ve looked into temporary ways to alleviate bunion symptoms, let’s look at what else there is to help alleviate the discomfort of bunions no matter how big or small.
Surgery for Bunions
If you have severe bunions, a GP may suggest referring you for surgery, especially if your bunions are negatively affecting your quality of life.
The most common form of bunion surgery is called an osteotomy, which involves cutting or scraping away the bunion, straightening the toe bone, and fixing it in place with metal screws or staples. This procedure is performed under general anaesthetic and requires a recovery period, including rest for up to 2 weeks and no driving for up to 6 weeks.
The surgery is often quite painful and should only be done as a last resort and under strict guidance from medical professionals.
Non Surgical Treatments
If you don’t feel like you are at the stage where surgery is required, there are a number of treatments that can be used in conjunction with bunion correctors, splints, and toe separators.
The NHS recommends holding an ice pack (a bag of frozen peas will do!) wrapped in a tea towel against the bunion for up to 5 minutes at a time. Cold therapy helps to reduce inflammation and swelling around the bunion and is particularly useful if you’ve been on your feet a lot.
Over-the-counter medication can also help alleviate some of the more painful symptoms, although we strongly recommend speaking to your doctor or pharmacist before taking any medication. Ibuprofen is effective at reducing inflammation and is useful to have in the cupboard for those nasty flare-ups.
If you are overweight, a longer-term solution, recommended by the NHS, is to lose weight. Excess weight can increase pressure on your feet, worsening symptoms. With less pressure on your joints and bunions, you may experience less pain, improved mobility, and better overall foot health.
Bunion Corrector & Splint Alternatives
If bunion correctors or splints aren’t providing the relief you need, why not consider bunion pads? These flexible gel, foam, or silicone pads are proven to provide immediate relief from pressure on painful bunions.
With plenty of options available on the market, bunion pads are lightweight, soft, and easy to use. Simply stick them directly to the bunion, ensuring they stay in place throughout the entire day.
