Find out how to get your bunions under control without resorting to surgery.

Is a bunion affecting your ability to get around? Our Gainesville, VA, podiatrist Dr. Mukesh Bhakta can help create the ideal treatment plan for you based on the severity of your bunion, your lifestyle and activity level to make sure that your bunion gets the care it needs without changing your routine.

Here are some ways to get your bunion symptoms under control.

Change your footwear: Any shoes that have high heels taller than 2 inches, or shoes that bunch up toes or have pointed toes are a no-no for people with bunions. Opt for shoes with a wide toe box that give your toes plenty of room to wiggle and move around.

Taping or padding the foot: Applying a protective pad to the bunion before wearing shoes can alleviate additional pressure placed on the area when standing or walking. Furthermore, taping or splinting the foot can also properly realign the foot and joint to reduce pain.

Wear custom orthotics: Our Gainesville, VA, podiatrist can also make prescription shoe inserts, which redistribute weight evenly throughout the foot to prevent the bunion from getting worse. Orthotics can reduce shock absorption while also providing the foot with the support it needs while in motion.

Medication: On days when your bunion just won’t quit, an over-the-counter pain reliever such as ibuprofen may be able to at least alleviate your discomfort. If you are dealing with severe bunion pain that over-the-counter pain relievers aren’t strong enough to handle, then Dr. Bhakta may recommend steroid injections to treat severe swelling and pain.

Icing: Icing is another easy and simple way to reduce swelling and pain, and may also provide you with relief from your symptoms when you would rather not resort to over-the-counter pain relievers. Ice can dull the pain and reduce inflammation. Ice the bunion for 15 minutes at a time, 2-3 times a day.

When should I see a podiatrist?

If you aren’t sure if you are dealing with a bunion then it’s time to turn to a foot and ankle doctor who can diagnose your condition. After all, there are many reasons someone may experience foot pain. If your symptoms aren’t responding to at-home care then Dr. Bhakta would be happy to create a more effective treatment plan to get your symptoms under control.

Whether you have questions about treating your bunion or you are experiencing symptoms of a bunion, turn to the experts at Prince William Foot & Ankle Center in Gainesville and South Riding, VA, for the treatment you need.