Wednesday, October 05, 2011

Health Tips for October 5

Health Tip: Get Relief From Bunion Pain

A bunion is a foot deformity that often occurs when someone wears tight narrow shoes with high heels. With a bunion, the joint at the base of the big toe sticks out and becomes inflamed.

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons offers these suggestions to help ease bunion pain:

  • Make sure shoes fit properly and conform to your feet.
  • Select shoes that offer a wide instep, soft soles and plenty of room in the toes.
  • Make sure heels are no higher than 2 1/4 inches.
  • Don't wear tight, short and very pointy shoes.
  • Make sure your shoes are roomy. Have them stretched, if necessary.
  • Cover a bunion with a cushioned pad to prevent additional irritation.

Health Tip: Soothe a Bunion

A bunion occurs when the joint that connects the big toe to the foot grows larger, forcing the big toe to bend toward the other toes. This leads to a painful lump, making it difficult to wear shoes.

The American Podiatric Medical Association suggests how to ease bunion pain:

  • Place a bunion pad around the swollen area. The pad should be non-medicated.
  • Wear shoes with plenty of room in the toes.
  • If the bunion swells and causes pain, ice the bunion several times a day.
  • If you wear heels, make sure they're no higher than 2 inches.
  • See a podiatrist if you don't get relief from the previous suggestions.

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