Running With Bunions

A bunion is a large, painful bump on the side of your big toe joint

. You also may find the end of your big toe pointing at your second toe. The bump that is created often becomes red and irritated from rubbing against shoes that aren't wide enough to accommodate for the width of your foot.

If you are a runner, then your bunions have even more pressure and rubbing on them then a normal individual does. It can be very frustrating and painful to be an athlete with bunions, since the only permanent way to fix a one is with surgery, which may not fit into someone's schedule, budget, or beliefs. Here are a couple of things that any runner who has bunions needs to know in order to reduce the discomfort of running with bunions.

1. Wearing wide shoes can help to alleviate pain and stop the progression of a bunion. If you are unsure what shoes to buy contact a podiatrist for a list of shoes that would be appropriate to accommodate your

2. To help reduce the rubbing of your first and second toes together, or from your bunion hitting the side of your shoes, consult with a podiatrist about padding and spacers that are available for many bunion patients.

3. It is important that you off-load the bunion as much as possible to prevent its progression. A custom orthotic device can reposition the forces that cause the bunion to form and slow or stop it from progressing. Many runners with bunions prefer this method, since it also makes their running gait more efficient, leading to a more optimized stride and better performance.

4. Surgery may be your best option! If your bunion has progressed to a level that is so painful that it is interfering with your quality of life then bunion surgery to straighten your toes may be your best option. Bunion surgery is a common podiatric procedure and has had a high level of success for many patients. Take a look at Paula Radcliffe...she's placing in the top of marathons even after her recent bunion surgery!

Bunions are very common disorders that can be painful and burdensome, especially to a runner. The most important thing to do in order to treat your bunion pain is to talk with a podiatrist about non-surgical and surgical ways to help correct symptoms of bunions. As with most issues, the longer you wait the more complex the treatment is likely to be.

by: Dr Andrew Schneider

POST COMMENT

Infinite Beauty: Effective Skin Care Tips For Women Over 50 The Process Of Detoxifying The Body Treadmills Built For The Big Boys Laser Hair Removal Offers Lasting Hair Removal Results Chiropractor In Mayfield Ky | Chiropractic Care: Towards A Life Free Of Back Pain Healthcare In Argentina Chin Augmentation Reshapes The Chin Either With An Implant Or Reduction Surgery On The Bone Symptoms Of Herpes In Detail Problems Losing Weight For A Wedding? Coping With Colon Cancer Is Never Easy The Benefits Of Detox Four Foolproof Ways To Fight Aging Skin Problems Truck Drivers Can Eat Tofu For Strength On The Road? I Dont Think So.