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Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge
The Bone and Joint Clinic Staff • August 27, 2024
Non-Surgical Bunion Relief: 6 Tips and Tools for Everyday Foot Comfort

Bunions, also known as hallux valgus, is a common foot condition that can be extremely painful. They develop on the side of the foot as a result of the big toe diverging in the direction of the other toes. There exist various non-surgical techniques to mitigate pain and decelerate the advancement of bunions, although surgical intervention is frequently employed in more severe scenarios.


What Causes Bunions?

It’s important to understand what bunions are and how they develop. Bunions are caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. They are often associated with:

  • Genetics: A family history of bunions increases the likelihood of developing them.
  • Footwear: Wearing tight, narrow, or high-heeled shoes can exacerbate the condition.
  • Foot Mechanics: Abnormal foot structure and function, such as flat feet or excessive pronation, can contribute to bunion formation.


Non-Surgical Treatment Options for Bunions

Non-surgical treatments focus on relieving pain, reducing inflammation, and preventing further progression of deformity. Here are some effective strategies to prevent bunions.


Proper Footwear for Preventing Bunions
  • Choose the Right Shoes: Select shoes with a wide toe box that allows ample room for your toes. Avoid high heels and narrow, pointed shoes.
  • Custom Orthotics: Insoles and orthotic devices can provide better arch support, distribute pressure more evenly, and improve overall foot mechanics.


Bunion Padding and Taping
  • Bunion Pads: Gel or moleskin pads can cushion the bunion and reduce friction, providing immediate relief from pain.
  • Taping: Taping the foot can help realign the toe and reduce strain on the bunion.


Anti-Inflammatory Measures for Bunions
  • Ice Therapy for Bunions: Applying ice packs to the bunion can reduce inflammation and numb the area, providing temporary pain relief.
  • Medications to Relieve Bunion Pain: Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can help manage pain and swelling.


Physical Therapy and Exercises to Prevent and Treat Bunions
  • Foot Stretching and Strengthening: Specific exercises and physical therapy can help improve flexibility and strengthen the muscles around the bunion, promoting better foot alignment.
  • Foot Range of Motion Exercises: Gentle stretches can maintain joint mobility and alleviate stiffness.


Night Splints and Toe Separators for Bunion Relief
  • Night Splints: These devices help keep the big toe straight while you sleep, reducing pain and slowing the progression of the bunion.
  • Toe Separators: Wearing toe spacers can help realign the toes and prevent them from rubbing against each other.


Lifestyle Modifications to Prevent and Treat Bunions
  • Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce pressure on the feet and prevent the worsening of bunions.
  • Activity Adjustments: Avoid activities that put excessive stress on the feet, such as running or standing for long periods.


When Should You See a Podiatrist for Bunions?

While non-surgical treatments can provide significant relief, it’s important to consult a doctor if:

  • The bunion causes severe pain that interferes with daily activities.
  • There is noticeable swelling, redness, or warmth, indicating a possible infection or inflammation.
  • Conservative treatments do not provide sufficient relief.


A podiatrist or orthopedic specialist can offer tailored advice, prescribe custom orthotics, and suggest further interventions if necessary.


Non-surgical methods for bunion relief can effectively manage pain and prevent the condition from worsening. If you’ve been experiencing foot pain from bunions or any other condition, schedule an appointment with the expert orthopedists at the Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge.

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The Signs and Symptoms of a Torn Meniscus

The Signs and Symptoms of a Torn Meniscus

By The Bone & Joint Clinic Staff • February 11, 2025
Damage to the meniscus, which serves as a cushion between the thigh and shin bones, can cause severe pain and impair movement.
Understanding the Most Common Types of Arthritis and Managing It at Different Life Stages

Understanding the Most Common Types of Arthritis and Managing It at Different Life Stages

By The Bone & Joint Clinic Staff • January 31, 2025
While it is often associated with aging, arthritis can affect individuals at any stage of life. Understanding the different types of arthritis and how to manage them at various life stages is key to maintaining a high quality of life.

Bone & Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge Physician Practice Transition – Effective April 1, 2025

By Bone and Joint Clinic Staff • January 30, 2025
BATON ROUGE, LA, January 30, 2025 – Effective April 1, 2025, four distinguished orthopedic surgeons from The Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge will transition to Baton Rouge Orthopedic Clinic (BROC), continuing their commitment to providing high-quality orthopedic care. The physicians joining BROC are: 1. Joseph "Jeb" Broyles, MD – Specializes in joint replacement surgery, knee arthroscopy, and cartilage regeneration. 2. Arthur "Art" Hess, MD – Specializes in trauma, hip, knee, and shoulder reconstruction, and total joint replacement surgery. 3. Mat hew "Matt" Mazoch, M D – Specializes in shoulder and knee surgery. 4. Alan Schroeder, MD – Specializes in sports medicine and shoulder surgery. Beginning April 1, 2025, these physicians will operate under BROC's umbrella while continuing to see patients at The Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge's current location, 7301 Hennessy Blvd. Eventually, the doctors plan to transition to BROC's campus on Bluebonnet Blvd. The estimated timeline for that move is Summer/Fall 2025. In addition, Dr. Patrick Hall will be transitioning to his own practice, Hall Podiatry, that will continue to provide quality podiatric care to patients. Dr. Hall will continue to practice at 7301 Hennessy Blvd. until May/June 2025. After that date, patients may see him at a new nearby location. Dr. Zachary Rohr and Christopher Belleau will also transition their practice to a new location effective March 31, 2025. We will update our patients once those details are finalized. Dr. Gerard Murtagh of The Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge will be retiring effective March 2025. Dr. Murtagh has been a vital part of the clinic since 1988 and has significantly contributed to its success. We thank Dr. Murtagh for his many years of service to the patients of Bone & Joint Clinic. Patients are encouraged to continue scheduling appointments at The Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge using the current process for the foreseeable future. To ensure a seamless transition, The Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge will provide detailed information to patients in the coming weeks, including the secure transfer of medical records and continuity of care. The health and well-being of patients remain the top priority, and The Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge, BROC, and Hall Podiatry are working together to make this transition as smooth as possible while maintaining uninterrupted care. For more information or to schedule an appointment, patients can contact The Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge at 225-766-0050 or by visiting bjcbr.com . Patients can also reach BROC at 225-924-2424 or by visiting brortho.com .
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