Among the various foot and ankle conditions, bunions are one of the most painful-especially during winter. Festive holiday party attire and colder weather combine to form the perfect environment for a bunion flareup. Fortunately, there are ways to reduce bunion pain so you can enjoy the holiday season. We’ve compiled some tips to help avoid another painful winter and why you may want to consider a bunion study.
Bunions Are More Than a Bump
Most people think of bunions as a bump on the side of the big toe. The truth is, they are a progressive disorder capable of changing a foot’s structure. Bunions form when the big toe moves toward the pinky toe instead of staying straight. Eventually, the joint at the base of the big toe is forced out of alignment, forming the characteristic bump. Individuals with bunions experience ongoing foot and toe pain, trouble standing for long periods, and other complications.
Winter Bunion Blues
Several factors contribute to worsening bunion pain in the winter. These include:
- Winter shoes are designed to keep feet warm and are more restrictive.
- Holiday party attire and footwear are typically geared more towards looks and not comfort.
- Seasonal events and shopping mean more time spent on your feet
Not all bunion pain is avoidable. However, this winter, you can be more comfortable with a bit of diligence and continuing your doctor’s treatment plan. Here are some helpful protective and preventative tips for managing winter bunion blues:
- Choose comfortable footwear:
- Wear shoes with a wide enough toe box that won’t cause excessive pressure or rubbing on the bunion. You can also add a pair of socks or use bunion pads for extra protection. Understandably, making some fashion sacrifices is necessary. Nevertheless, your feet will thank you for taking the time to find the proper footwear.
- Put your feet up: Resting frequently gives your feet a break and reduces fatigue. Elevate your feet above your heart to reduce swelling too.
- Keep your feet warm: Cold feet can cause dull, aching pain in inflamed bunions. Use socks with a warmer material like fleece or wool to avoid this.
Considering a Bunionectomy?
As a bunion progresses in severity, the treatment options become more and more limited. Continuing to delay treatment not only prevents you from fully enjoying holiday events now, it potentially jeopardizes future ones too. If you’ve been considering a bunionectomy, joining a bunion study may be the opportunity you’ve been waiting for.
Endeavor Clinical Trials has upcoming bunion studies where qualified participants may receive bunion removal surgery at no cost. To learn more, visit our website, or call us today at (210) 949-0807.
Sources:
https://lighthousefootandankle.com/blog/2018/11/13/bracing-for-winter-with-bunions
https://yourfootdocs.com/dont-let-bunions-ruin-your-holiday/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bunions/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20354805