Bunions develop when the joint of the big toe is forced out of alignment, turning the big toe towards the direction of the other toes. They resemble a bony lump at the largest toe joint, and they can lead to corns and calluses as well as inflammation and pain. Patients who experience swelling symptoms should seek treatment and relief from a medical professional.
Usually, a medical expert can start with nonsurgical therapy. These options include orthotics, ice compress, special footwear, splints, swelling pads, etc. Surgery may be required to address severe bunions. It is advised to get treatment for bunions since they can become painful, restrict movement, and become inflamed. Some clinics also provide medical benefits and support insurance plans.
If you’re looking for a Blue Cross Blue Shield podiatrist you can check with Dr. Sima Soltani’s Podiatry clinic in Irvine County, California. They have other insurance plans like Cigna, Covered California, Health Net, and United Healthcare. The podiatry clinic will always ask for your insurance details so that they can call your provider before your visit.
Treatment by Podiatrist for Bunions
Bunions can be treated in two ways, non-surgical and surgical methods. Some DIY methods also give temporary relief.
Non-Surgical Method
- Toe pads and cushions are a common kind of non-surgical therapy. Both can lessen the strain on the bunion and keep it from rubbing against shoes.
- Toe spacers and separators – These devices are another non-surgical therapy option. These tools aid in toe realignment and relieve strain on the bunion joint.
- Orthotics are another common non-surgical treatment for bunions. These can be bought over the counter or customized to support the foot and reduce discomfort.
- Medication: Over-the-counter pain-relieving pills can aid with pain relief and swelling reduction. For severe bunions, prescription-strength NSAIDs medicines are needed. Injections of corticosteroids can also lessen pain and inflammation.
- Physical therapy: Exercises for strengthening and stretching bunions can be created by physical therapists. To minimize inflammation, they can also suggest using ultrasound or other treatments.
Consult your podiatrist Blue Cross Blue Shield insured clinic about your treatment options if you have a bunion.
Surgical Method
There are numerous surgical options available for bunions. The most frequent procedure involves realigning the toe and doing surgery to remove the bunion. Podiatrist BCBS surgeons generally employ pins or screws to hold the toe in place while it heals. Some settings require breaking and resetting bones during various operations. Although it isn’t always essential, surgery should be advised in extreme circumstances or if non-surgical treatments haven’t provided relief.
DIY Method
- Soak the foot in Epsom salt mixed in warm water to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Apply ice pack compressor for quick healing.
- Exercising is the best way of strengthening and stretching the muscles around the big toe and bunion.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle and reduce weight.
- Give your feet a good massage from time to time and avoid heels as much as possible. After long-standing hours give your feet little rest.
The goal is to reduce pain and return the big toe to its original position. If you feel DIY methods are not helping, then contact your podiatrist for better assistance.
