Natural and Powerful Treatments For Bunions

What Are Bunions?

A painful condition known as hallux valgus in Latin, bunions are a deformity of the joint that connects the big toe to the foot. Noticeable by the big toe bending toward the other, the deformity is characterized by mild to severe bunion pain. The onset of symptoms is usually gradual and leaving bunions untreated can complicate matters and lead to arthritis or bursitis.

Diagnosis includes an x-ray of the affected foot. After bunions diagnosis, a doctor can prescribe treatment that usually includes NSAIDs (anti-inflammatory drugs), orthotics and proper shoes. A bunion surgery may also be recommended, although this is in extreme cases.

Bunions Risk Factors

The cause of the painful condition is unclear. Over 20% of adults are affected, with the condition being more common among females. It usually affects people between 20 and 50 although younger people may also be affected.

Experts say that genetics and wearing inappropriate (tight) footwear might cause the problem. High heels have been known to trigger it as well.

Symptoms of Bunions

A red and painful big toe that bends towards the other toes is the biggest symptom of this painful condition. You may also experience irritated skin and blisters as well as pain that worsens when you walk.

Bunions are problematic since you’ll find it hard to find proper footwear. As the deformity progresses, the pain will get worse. In extreme cases, it is considered a mechanical function problem of the forefoot. In this case, bunions surgery might be needed in order to solve your problem.

Bunions Treatment

As mentioned, the treatment of this painful condition usually includes orthotics, rest, and pain drugs as well. NSAIDs are pretty commonly prescribed as they help treat most symptoms. In severe cases with high levels of pain, a surgery might be needed.

People have found different ways to deal with the problem. Gel toes spacers come in different shapes and sizes and can help with the pain. They are not, however, a finite solution.

The good news is that there are natural ways to treat bunions and stop the bunion pain. You’ll see a few recipes below. They are easy to prepare and even easier to use.

These remedies have no side-effects at all and are a pretty effective natural treatment for the unpleasant pain.

Natural Remedies for Bunions

Recipe 1:

• Pour 300 ml of water over one tablespoon of crushed bay leaf in the evening and cook it for 5 minutes. Keep the mixture overnight in a thermos.
• In the morning strain it and take small sips during the day. Don’t drink the liquid all at once!
• You should repeat these for 3 days in a row and to prepare a fresh drink every time. After 7 days, repeat the treatment.
• Don’t be surprised if you urinate frequently. That means that the salt in your body has started to diffuse and also to irritate the bladder.
• After 10 days you should notice a result. The joint pain will disappear and you will feel relieved.
• Take 5 large bay leaves, rush them and pour over 100 ml of 96 % alcohol. Let it for one week and then strain.
• First soak your feet in 3 liter warm water and one tablespoon of baking soda, and then apply the remedy on the bunions.
• Pat the feet dry, apply the mixture and put on some cotton socks. The combination of aspirin and iodine works really great in the treatment of these bunions, any other growths or joint pain.

Recipe 2:

• Some regular soaps can relieve the inflammation and pain caused by bunions.
• Shred some soap and apply it on the spot gently massaging it. Then rinse, pat dry and apply iodine in a net-like drawing.
• Also, you can soak a cotton bud in iodine and to draw a net over the bunions. Cross over some vertical and horizontal lines, a cm apart from each other. The iodine absorbs very well when it is applied in this way. Let it dry and then put on the socks. Repeat this treatment for 30 days.
• You can treat your bunions using iodine and lemon juice in equal parts, and this treatment is also good in the treatment of “heel spur”.
  

Bunions Treatment Tips

Here are a few tips that will help you manage the pain:

Wear Appropriate Footwear

Wearing appropriate, fitting footwear is a must when you’re dealing with bunions. Your shoes must have proper support for the arch and be neither too tight or too wide. Wearing poor shoes can aggravate the pain and cause a lot of discomfort which you don’t want.

No Flip-Flops!

Whatever you do, never wear flip-flops if you suffer from bunions. In fact, you might want to get rid of them once and for all since they don’t support your feet properly.

Stretch Your Toes

Stretch your toes every morning and while at home or work. This should be done a few times per day for best results. Just wiggle them around so make the pain subside and prevent it from coming back.

Soak Your Feet in Epsom Salt

Foot soaks can relieve different types of foot problems including bunions. Soaking your feet in a solution of Epsom salt and water every night before going to bed can reduce the inflammation and eliminate the pain.