As we age, the feet can start to form their own personality and tell tales of the adventurous treks that were taken, the miles accumulated by athletic activities, or the hours spent hoofing down hallways in high-heeled shoes. I like to say that as we age, the feet start to have a mind of their own. The feet and toes can start to bend and twist to accommodate the lifestyle we have put upon them. Bunions are a type of foot deformity that tends to be the result of wearing ill-fitting shoes but may also be acquired genetically or from issues such as arthritis or having flat feet.
My first impression of bunions was not as a foot care nurse. As a child I remember questioning my grandmother about why she wore the shoes she did and why she had big lumps on her feet. My grandmother acquired bunions starting at a young age. She was raised in an orphanage. What I can only imagine as a traumatic childhood manifested in her feet as she was only given shoes to wear that were two sizes too small. Unfortunately, for my grandmother, the pain of having bunions was a reminder of the neglect she must have faced daily as a child. For many of us though, by choosing and having accessibility to properly fitting shoes, we can avoid the pain of living with bunions.
Bunions are a deformity and rotation of the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint and are also known as a hallux valgus. Bunions can lead to other foot deformities such as hammertoes, followed by corns and calluses which can cause pain to other areas of the foot as well. Bunions may or may not be painful, but if a bursa develops on the bunion (a fluid-filled sac that cushions the inflamed joint), it is then known as bursitis and symptoms can cause pain, irritation and swelling. What is known as “bunionettes” are also a deformity to the MTP joint causing a bony protrusion, but these are found on the outside of the foot near the little toe.
If you suspect you are developing a bunion or have been living with an undiagnosed bunion for years, your healthcare provider can typically diagnose with a physical examination. Bunions do not go away on their own, but there are ways to manage the pain and keep your feet as comfortable as possible. Surgery may be an option, but with surgery there are always risks involved and should often be a last resort. If you are having a significant amount of pain from the bunion area, please visit your healthcare provider and weigh your options carefully regarding surgical procedures.
There are many ways to alleviate foot pain regarding bunion deformities. Here are some self-care tips and methods of prevention:
- Assess your current footwear. Finding a comfortable shoe with a wide toe box can take pressure off the bunions and toes. Orthopedic shoes are available to accommodate the need for more space in the toe box area including many brands made with materials that stretch and are stylish.
- Orthotics or shoe inserts can help alleviate foot pain. Custom-made orthotics are typically ideal to provide comfort for many years, but also can be expensive. There are less expensive shoe inserts available as well and may be worth a try and less of an investment if cost is an issue.
- Bunion pads and cushions are available that may provide some pain relief and help to avoid further friction.
- Keep your weight at a healthy BMI. Being overweight puts more pressure on your feet.
- Elevate your feet to reduce swelling. Applying ice packs may also reduce swelling by constricting the blood vessels to that area. Just be sure not to apply ice directly to the skin.
- Toe and foot exercises may bring relief as well as foot massage.
- Epsom salt soaks in warm water, chamomile tea, turmeric paste to affected area or castor oil compresses are a few ideas for natural at-home treatments. Also, incorporating anti-inflammatory foods into your diet and supplements are always a wonderful way to help treat health issues of all kinds.
My experience is that not many people are proud of their feet. Many clients under my care begin our conversation during the appointment with an apology for the poor condition of their feet. They say things like, “I am sure you have never seen feet in worse shape than mine!” I attempt to offer solace as I feel like no one should be embarrassed by their feet. Like in Dr. Suess’ The Foot Book, yes, indeed all the feet I meet! They come in all shapes, sizes and conditions. Our feet are symbolic of the life we have lived and the pains we carry. Like my grandmother, sometimes the pain can’t be covered up and the pain can’t be excised. We learn adaptation and we learn to stand on our own two feet. Learning to treat our feet with kindness is not only a direct reflection just to our feet. It reflects kindness and acceptance to our body, mind and spirit and our life story. Our feet have been the courier of our lives. Offer gratitude and care each step of the way.
This content is not intended to substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician and/or another qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have regarding medical conditions.
Kirsten Antony
Kirsten Antony is a Registered Nurse and Holistic Health Care Practitioner. She offers in-home services specializing in foot care, reflexology, sound healing and healing touch to those in the Denver Metro Area. For more information, please visit www.coloradofootcarenurse.com or www.facebook.com/soultosoleholistichealthcare or call 303-668-8992.