Bunions cause pain but hydrogel bunion guards are available
to get you moving again
Painful bunions can make even walking difficult, but treatments
are readily available. Read on to learn more about hydrogel
bunion guards, orthotics, medications and more.
What is a bunion?
A bunion is the
painful swelling of the bursa, which is a fluid-filled sac located
at the first joint at the base of the toe. A bunion occurs due to
a condition called hallux valgus. Hallux valgus is a bone displacement
in which the toe bulges at the base, and the top of the toe leans
in toward the second toe. The toe's bulging base rubs against footwear,
causing friction with the bursa, leading to irritation and swelling.
People with bunions tend to have them on both feet.
Bunions affect women more than men. Women who are affected tend
to wear high-heeled shoes with pointed, narrow toes. However, women
and men who wear ill-fitting shoes or who have flat feet also may
develop bunions. Bunions may affect people who place more stress
on the insides of their feet when running or walking as well.
Bunion treatment with guards, orthotics and more
Pressure on a bunion can be relieved with wide, low-heeled shoes.
Other treatments include:
- hydrogel bunion guards. The silicone hydrogel bunion guard helps
to cushion the bunion. Users may wear the hydrogel bunion
guard throughout the day to relieve friction and pressure. Guards
can be purchased over the counter or online and are usually one-size-fits-all.
It's best to wear the hydrogel bunion guard with wide shoes. When
purchasing a guard, look for one that is reusable and hand washable.
Sprinkling the hydrogel bunion guard with talcum powder can help
prevent odor.
- orthotics. Orthotics help to improve foot support, correct toe
alignment and offer pain relief.
- anti-inflammatory medications or steroid injections. Medications
and injections may be used to relieve inflammation and pain.
- surgery. Severe bunions are treated with a surgical procedure,
called a bunionectomy.
For more information about bunions, talk with your physician.
Bunion treatments right at your fingertips
For a variety of bunion products, see our product menu at right.
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