Bunions: Relieve Pain with these Easy Foot  Exercises

When the base of your big toe becomes swollen and results in a large bump, you may have a bunion. Over time, bunions can lead to arthritis and often result in intense foot pain. The good news is that, to give your bunion the boot, you don't always need to have surgery. Since the bunion results as a biochemical deformity, you can use special foot exercises that will increase the flexibility in the area and alleviate some of the symptoms.

Foot Exercises to Relieve Bunion Pain

It's always best to try exercises before surgery, as conservative treatment can sometimes give you as good an outcome with fewer complications. Exercises that are normally recommended to slow the progression of bunions and help the healing process involve stretches that allow for flexibility and strengthening of your big toe. Some exercises to try include:

Toe Stretching

The more limber your feet are, the better they can stave off the pain. For toe stretches, start by pointing your toes straight and holding the position for five seconds. Next, curl your toes under and hold this position for five more seconds. You can do these in sets of ten and it can also help with chronically bent toes.

Toe Contractions

You can help strengthen the muscles in your toes by contracting them against a hard surface. Start by pressing your toes against the wall and flexing them. Hold for at least ten seconds, then release. Repeat at least ten times. Next, get into a sitting position and flex your toes upward, holding the position for ten seconds and repeating five or six times.

Big Toe Stretches

Since your big toe can be the source of many foot problems, you should make sure to stretch it individually. Sit in a comfortable position where you can reach your toe. Pull your big toe into the spot it should be, making sure it is properly aligned, then hold it in position for at least ten seconds. Repeat the process five times.

Big Toe Resistance

Performing resistance exercises on your big toe alone can also produce additional flexibility and strength. Use a belt or thin towel that can comfortably wrap around your big toe. Use the belt or towel to pull your big toes upward and toward your body while applying resistance downward with the big toe.

Ball Foot Roll

You can relieve the pain of bunions such as cramping and foot strain by rolling a small ball underneath your feet. A golf ball is ideal and can provide additional texture. Perform this for at least two minutes for each foot.

Gripping Exercise

Exercises that require you to grip with your toes can strengthen the muscles and stretch them. You can work on this by placing 15 to 20 marbles on the floor and picking them up with your toes. You can also walk on sand barefoot as it will require you to grip with your toes to push off.

To get the best results, it is advisable to perform bunion exercises every day. To make sure you fit it in, pick a time every day, such as when you are watching television. Then perform the exercises daily, so they become part of your regular routine.