Footwear serves to protect the feet from many things, especially from extreme weather and injuries caused by soil conditions. Therefore, it takes comfort in using footwear, be it sandals or shoes.
Along with the times, especially the fashion industry, footwear has shifted its function to become a means of supporting appearance, even shoes are not uncommon in certain eras. Unfortunately, not all trends pay attention to comfort.
In line with the trend, there are people who ignore the comfort and health factors when wearing shoes in order to create an appearance that fits the times. One of them is the use of shoes that have a smaller section or pointy shoes.
Often found in women's and men's shoe models, this type of shoe can put pressure on the big toe bone and have a bad impact on the wearer in the long run. The result is a bony lump on the outside of the foot, also known as a bunion.
Bunion
Quoted from the Mayo Clinic, wearing pointy shoes is not the only cause of someone experiencing bunions. There are also other causes, including heredity, leg injuries, or even birth defects.
Although this condition seems trivial, but if you experience it, it's good you don't ignore it. Especially if you experience ongoing thumb or toe pain, visible lumps in the big toe joint, or decreased performance of big toe movements.
Some of the things above can be a consideration for you to go see an orthopedic specialist. However, before going to the doctor, you can also do some treatments that can relieve bunions, such as the following methods.
Change Shoes
The shape of the shoe that tapers to the front can make bunions worse. Therefore, try changing your shoes to improve the condition of the lumpy bone. Choose shoes that have plenty of toe room. If you want a right, choose a right no more than 5 cm.
High heels can put pressure on the front of your foot, creating bunions and other problems.
Ice Compress
Bunions are often accompanied by pain and swelling. To relieve this condition, try compressing the foot with ice placed in a towel, then placing it on the bunion. Do not compress for more than 20 minutes, because it can cause ice burn.
You can also ask your doctor's opinion if you have nerve damage or circulation problems before applying this ice pack.
Use Padding
Padding can be a treatment that you can practice to relieve this condition. At least, this pad can protect your painful bunion, so you can carry out activities as usual. However, if you do not experience better conditions, stop and go to the doctor, yes.
Take medicine
Bunions that are accompanied by pain you can treat with pain killers, which are sold over-the-counter at pharmacies, such as ibuprofen, for example. These medications can help with swelling and pain.
Surgery
Disclaimer, this treatment is not a home treatment like the four treatments above. You can go to the doctor if you don't find a better condition after practicing some of the ways above.
Usually, to straighten your big toe, doctors recommend surgery. However, doctors usually don't treat teenage patients, because in their teens, the legs are still growing and bunions often reappear.