Bunions are painful, swollen pads overlying the joint at the base of the big toe. They begin as an inflammation of the joint, which swells so that the overlying skin becomes red, hard, and sore. If left untreated, the ligaments in the toes shorten, pushing them together in what often becomes a permanent deformity. Bunions are caused by wearing ill-fitting shoes, but they can be hereditary.
Corns are painful wedges of hard skin that result from excess pressure on the surface of the skin of the toes or the soles of the feet. Corns are usually caused by wearing ill-fitting shoes, but may also occur when shoes are worn without socks. They are most common in people with high arches, because the arch increases the pressure on the toes when walking.
Treatment
It is important to wear comfortable, professionally fitted shoes, and to ensure that your feet are rested every day. A circular corn pad can be worn to reduce pressure on the corn itself. Consult a podiatrist for severe or recalcitrant cases.
Diet and Nutrition Biochemic tissue salts for bunions include Ferr. phos. and Kali mur.
Massage To treat bunnions massage your toes with oil of peppermint, blended in a light carrier oil, to stimulate the circulation and prevent swelling. Self-mobilize the toe by gently pulling it and moving it around.
Corns may be massaged with warm oil to soften the hardened skin before removal.
Homeopathy Specific treatments may include Belladonna, Bryonia, Pulsatilla, and Ruta grav.
Hydrotherapy Footbaths with mustard, Epsom salts, arnica, and oils of peppermint, lavender, camomile, and geranium will relieve symptoms and discourage swelling.
Read out for herbal medicines. Check out herbal supplements and skin disorders