Getting rid of bunions, as well as relieving the symptoms they produce, is a necessity for many people who are affected by this problem, which can cause great pain.
In addition to medical treatment, there are several home remedies to help reduce this disorder, relieving its discomfort and preventing it from recurring.
Below, we share some of these treatments and solutions, with home and natural remedies to get rid of bunions once and for all.
What are bunions?
Bunions are a condition that causes a deformity of the joint at the base of the big toe. Their development is often associated with genetic factors or improper use of frequently worn footwear.
Bunions often appear after the age of 30. They almost always affect both feet, and their symptoms are as follows:
- Tumor.
- Inflammation.
- Redness of the area.
- Pain when walking.
- Formation of calluses on the nearby skin.
If you recognize the aforementioned symptoms in yourself, it is best to consult a doctor to receive the appropriate treatment to cure them.
Diagnosis and treatment
A podiatrist can diagnose bunions through a physical examination and by questioning the patient. An X-ray also helps determine the best way to treat the problem.
There are several treatment options, some conservative and others more invasive. These include:
- Wear larger, more comfortable shoes that give your toes room.
- Place cushioning pads or insoles in your shoes;
Take painkillers to relieve pain. - Cortisone injections, for the same purpose;
- Sometimes surgery may be required.
Natural remedies to get rid of bunions
There are various treatments and natural remedies for bunions, which can help with some of the uncomfortable symptoms.
1. Local heat and cold
The pain caused by bunions can become really bothersome, especially when we have walked a lot or stood for a long time and do not have the right shoes.
To reduce this symptom, you have the option of applying cold or heat to your feet, especially in the arch area.
When the discomfort is very intense, you can soak your feet in warm water or apply compresses by soaking a cloth in hot water and wrapping it around your feet.
As for the cold, you can soak your feet in a tub of water with a little ice or use a cold pack or compress. However, this is not recommended if you have circulation problems.
2. Lavender
Lavender oil is a popular remedy for treating bunions. Its properties help relieve pain and inflammation in the affected area.
- All you have to do is mix dried lavender flowers with olive or almond oil.
- Then, heat it gently in a bain-marie.
- Finally, strain to obtain the lavender oil.
- You should store the liquid in an airtight glass jar.
- Finally, ideally, you should apply this remedy to the bunion every night, massaging gently.
3. Rue
Rue is a plant with many healing properties. In particular, it helps reduce the pain and inflammation associated with rheumatic diseases such as arthritis and osteoarthritis.
To soothe the pain of bunions, it is recommended to take a warm foot bath with a little rue. Prepare a kind of infusion and soak your feet for 15 minutes.
6. Bay leaf infusion and baths
Bay leaves have numerous properties that help combat bunions. This treatment should be followed for two months. However, results begin to appear within the first 10 days of application.
- First, you should prepare a bay leaf infusion and leave it in a thermos overnight.
- The next morning, strain it and sip it throughout the day. Repeat this process for three consecutive days, then take a week off.
- You can also crush 5 bay leaves and pour them over 100 ml of 96% alcohol. Let the mixture macerate for a week.
- Then, apply it to the affected area, ideally after soaking your feet in warm water.
- Next, the feet are massaged.
- Finally, this remedy is applied every night and covered with socks for better results.
Recommendations for relieving bunions
- Maintain a balanced weight to avoid worsening this problem with being overweight.
- Increase your intake of vitamins A and C, calcium, and vitamin D to strengthen your bones.
- It’s also very important to wear comfortable shoes with a wide toe box and flexible materials. Shoes that are too tight or too high can worsen bunions.
Is it possible to get rid of bunions?
If bunions cause persistent pain that worsens over time and becomes debilitating, hallux valgus surgery is an option. This is something you should discuss with your doctor and take their advice into account.
The surgery can correct the deformity, relieve pain, and restore function when it has been affected. It is usually successful; however, it requires a recovery period of several months (between 3 and 5).
There is also the possibility that the deformity may reappear if the person does not follow the post-operative recommendations regarding the use of appropriate footwear.
While some may be helpful, they are not a substitute for professional medical care. It is always important to consult a doctor before using any home remedy for an illness or ailment.