Orthopedic Disorders
Question #17518
5 days ago
496

Bunion how to remove? - #17518

Anonymously

A 3 months ago, I started noticing a slight bump forming on the side of my right foot near the big toe. At first, I ignored it, thinking it was just a little swelling from wearing tight shoes. But over time, the bump grew, and now it’s painful, especially when I walk for long periods. The worst part is that my big toe is slowly moving inwards, pressing against the other toes. It’s getting harder to wear my regular shoes because they feel tight and uncomfortable. I went to a doctor, and they told me it’s a bunion. They suggested I either wear wider shoes or consider surgery if it gets worse. But I really don’t want to go for surgery unless it’s the last option. I’ve been reading about alternative treatments, and I want to know if Ayurveda has any natural remedies for a bunion. Can Ayurveda help reduce the size of a bunion, or at least stop it from getting worse? Are there specific oils, massages, or herbal treatments that can help with the pain and inflammation? I also wonder if diet plays any role in bunion formation. Can eating certain foods or avoiding others help in managing a bunion? Also, I have noticed that my feet tend to swell up a lot, especially in hot weather. Could this be related to the bunion, and are there Ayurvedic treatments for swelling that might help? If there are any Ayurvedic exercises or foot care techniques that can prevent a bunion from getting worse, I would love to try them. I want to try natural methods before considering any medical procedures.

Bunion
Ayurvedic treatment for bunion
Foot pain ayurveda
Swelling in feet
Natural remedies for bunion
Ayurvedic massage for bunion
Herbal treatment for bunion
300 INR

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Doctors’ responses

Dr. Rahul Mishra
Dr. Rahul Mishra is a distinguished Ayurvedic practitioner specializing in musculoskeletal disorders and pain management. With over 18 years of clinical experience, he has successfully treated numerous patients suffering from chronic pain, arthritis, and sports injuries using traditional Ayurvedic methods.
5 days ago
5
Hello. Thank you for sharing your concerns. In Ayurveda, bunions are generally considered a manifestation of Vata imbalance, specifically, an imbalance of the dry, cold, and mobile qualities of Vata. Misalignment of the bones in the feet, causing pressure and discomfort, is often associated with an aggravation of Vata in Apana Vata (the downward energy associated with elimination and the lower body). The following Ayurvedic approaches are recommended to address this issue: Abhyanga (oil massage): Applying warm sesame oil or Bhringraj oil to the feet helps soothe and nourish the affected area. The warmth and moisturizing nature of the oils counteracts the dry and cold qualities of aggravated Vata. Padabhyanga (foot massage): Focusing on the feet, which are considered the foundation of the body, can help improve circulation and balance Vata. Vata-pacifying diet: Warm, nourishing foods such as cooked grains, ghee, root vegetables, and soups help balance Vata and reduce swelling or discomfort. Avoid cold foods or anything overly dry, which can aggravate Vata. Stretching and strengthening exercises: Specific foot exercises such as ankle rotations, toe stretches, and foot yoga can help relieve pressure on the bunion by increasing flexibility and blood circulation in the area. Regular prone poses and leg lifts in yoga can help reduce the effects of Vata on the bones and joints. To balance Vata, incorporate grounding, warming, and hydrating exercises into your daily routine. Maintaining a daily routine, getting enough sleep, and avoiding excess stress will keep your joints and bones healthy. If the condition progresses, it is important to consult a qualified Ayurvedic physician for individualized treatment recommendations tailored to your individual dosha and symptoms.

0 replies
Dr Sujal Patil
Experience of 14 years in clinical and research field of Ayurveda. I am a Science based evidence based Ayurveda practitioner and incorporate accurate diet regimen and minimal medication in my practice with faster results sans no side effects.
4 days ago
4.83
Namaste, and thank you for sharing your concerns. From an Ayurvedic perspective, a bunion (hallux valgus) is primarily linked to an imbalance in Vata and Pitta doshas, affecting the bones (Asthi Dhatu) and causing inflammation in the joints. Vata governs movement and structure, and when aggravated, it can lead to bone deformities, dryness, and stiffness. Pitta, on the other hand, can cause inflammation and pain in the affected area. Since you also experience swelling, there may be an element of Kapha imbalance contributing to fluid retention. Ayurveda does not claim to reverse a fully developed bunion, but it can help reduce pain, slow down its progression, and improve foot health naturally. One of the best ways to manage bunion pain and inflammation is through regular oil massage (Abhyanga) with warm anti-inflammatory oils like Mahanarayan oil or castor oil. Gently massaging the bunion and surrounding area before bedtime can improve circulation, reduce stiffness, and calm aggravated Vata. After massage, you can apply a warm turmeric and aloe vera paste to the bunion to help control Pitta-induced inflammation. Soaking your feet in Epsom salt or Triphala decoction can also relieve discomfort and swelling. Additionally, you can take Guggulu-based formulations like Kaishore Guggulu or Yogaraj Guggulu under an Ayurvedic practitioner’s guidance to support joint health and detoxification. Diet plays a key role in managing both bone health and inflammation. Avoid excessive sour, spicy, and processed foods, as they can aggravate Pitta and worsen inflammation. Instead, focus on a Vata-Pitta pacifying diet by incorporating warm, nourishing foods rich in calcium, sesame seeds, ghee, and leafy greens. Since swelling is a concern, reducing excess salt and processed foods can help prevent fluid retention. Drinking coriander seed water (soaking 1 tsp coriander seeds overnight and drinking the water in the morning) can help reduce swelling naturally. Keeping your digestion strong is also crucial, as poor gut health can lead to toxin buildup (Ama), which may contribute to joint issues. In addition to diet and herbal remedies, corrective foot care techniques can help slow down bunion progression. Gentle stretching exercises like toe separators, foot rolling with a wooden roller, and exercises that strengthen the foot arch can improve alignment. Wearing Ayurvedic footpads made from medicinal herbs like Daruharidra and Vacha can also support foot structure. Try to avoid tight footwear and prolonged standing to prevent further strain. Since heat aggravates swelling, applying a cooling sandalwood or aloe-based foot cream after a long day can help soothe tired feet. With consistent Ayurvedic care, you can reduce pain, manage swelling, and slow down bunion progression naturally without rushing into surgery.

0 replies
Dr. Vivek Kumar
Dr. Vivek Kumar is an accomplished Ayurvedic physician with expertise in Kayachikitsa and Rheumatology. He has authored several books on Ayurvedic treatments.
4 days ago
Hello! Thank you for sharing your experience. In Ayurveda, bunions are often seen as a result of imbalances in the Vata and Pitta doshas, causing joint instability and inflammation. To alleviate this, oils like Sesame or Eucalyptus can be massaged into the affected area to reduce pain and inflammation. You can also use herbal preparations with turmeric or ginger to reduce swelling. In terms of diet, it's best to avoid excess acidic, fried, or processed foods, which can aggravate inflammation. Focus on incorporating cooling and anti-inflammatory foods like cucumbers, coconut, and leafy greens. For exercises, try gentle stretches like rotating the foot and toes to improve circulation. Foot soaks with Epsom salts or warm water infused with herbs like chamomile may help reduce swelling and ease discomfort. Regular Abhyanga (self-massage) can improve circulation and support joint health. Lastly, wearing properly fitted shoes, using bunion pads, and avoiding tight footwear can help prevent further irritation. Before trying anything new, always check with your healthcare provider. Take care!

0 replies
Dr. Harsha Joy
Dr. Harsha Joy is a renowned Ayurvedic practitioner with a wealth of expertise in lifestyle consultation, skin and hair care, gynecology, and infertility treatments. With years of experience, she is dedicated to helping individuals achieve optimal health through a balanced approach rooted in Ayurveda's time-tested principles. Dr. Harsha has a unique ability to connect with her patients, offering personalized care plans that cater to individual needs, whether addressing hormonal imbalances, fertility concerns, or chronic skin and hair conditions. In addition to her clinical practice, Dr. Harsha is a core content creator in the field of Ayurveda, contributing extensively to educational platforms and medical literature. She is passionate about making Ayurvedic wisdom accessible to a broader audience, combining ancient knowledge with modern advancements to empower her clients on their wellness journeys. Her areas of interest include promoting women's health, managing lifestyle disorders, and addressing the root causes of skin and hair issues through natural, non-invasive therapies. Dr. Harsha’s holistic approach focuses on not just treating symptoms but addressing the underlying causes of imbalances, ensuring sustainable and long-lasting results. Her warm and empathetic nature, coupled with her deep expertise, has made her a sought-after consultant for those looking for natural, effective solutions to improve their quality of life. Whether you're seeking to enhance fertility, rejuvenate your skin and hair, or improve overall well-being, Dr. Harsha Joy offers a compassionate and knowledgeable pathway to achieving your health goals.
2 days ago
4.83
Ayurveda offers several natural remedies to manage bunions and help reduce discomfort. Herbal oils such as Eucalyptus or Mustard oil can be massaged onto the affected area to reduce inflammation and ease pain. Regular foot massages with Sesame oil or Mahanarayan oil can improve circulation, relieve swelling, and reduce the size of the bump over time. In terms of diet, Ayurveda recommends avoiding excess pungent, salty, and processed foods that may contribute to inflammation and swelling. Incorporating anti-inflammatory foods like turmeric, ginger, and omega-3-rich foods like flaxseeds can help manage the condition. To reduce swelling, elevating the feet and soaking them in warm water with Epsom salt or ginger can provide relief. Gentle foot exercises like toes stretching and using toenail separators can help realign the big toe and reduce further pressure on the other toes. Also, using wider, comfortable shoes with proper arch support can prevent further aggravation. Ayurvedic treatments like Panchakarma may help detoxify and reduce inflammation in the body as well. These methods can be a holistic alternative to surgery, but consistency is key in managing the condition long-term.

0 replies
Dr. Harsha Joy
Dr. Harsha Joy is a renowned Ayurvedic practitioner with a wealth of expertise in lifestyle consultation, skin and hair care, gynecology, and infertility treatments. With years of experience, she is dedicated to helping individuals achieve optimal health through a balanced approach rooted in Ayurveda's time-tested principles. Dr. Harsha has a unique ability to connect with her patients, offering personalized care plans that cater to individual needs, whether addressing hormonal imbalances, fertility concerns, or chronic skin and hair conditions. In addition to her clinical practice, Dr. Harsha is a core content creator in the field of Ayurveda, contributing extensively to educational platforms and medical literature. She is passionate about making Ayurvedic wisdom accessible to a broader audience, combining ancient knowledge with modern advancements to empower her clients on their wellness journeys. Her areas of interest include promoting women's health, managing lifestyle disorders, and addressing the root causes of skin and hair issues through natural, non-invasive therapies. Dr. Harsha’s holistic approach focuses on not just treating symptoms but addressing the underlying causes of imbalances, ensuring sustainable and long-lasting results. Her warm and empathetic nature, coupled with her deep expertise, has made her a sought-after consultant for those looking for natural, effective solutions to improve their quality of life. Whether you're seeking to enhance fertility, rejuvenate your skin and hair, or improve overall well-being, Dr. Harsha Joy offers a compassionate and knowledgeable pathway to achieving your health goals.
2 days ago
4.83
In Ayurveda, bunions are often linked to an imbalance in *Vata* and *Kapha*, leading to joint instability and excess accumulation of tissue around the affected area. To manage a bunion naturally, oils like *Mahanarayan* or *Kumkumadi* can be massaged into the foot to reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and ease pain. Warm herbal compresses with ingredients like *turmeric* and *ginger* can also help reduce swelling and pain. Diet plays a role in managing inflammation, so focusing on anti-inflammatory foods like turmeric, ginger, and leafy greens, while avoiding excessive salt and processed foods, can help reduce swelling. Gentle foot exercises like toe stretches, *Ankle rotations*, and *Padangusthasana* (Toe Pose) can help maintain flexibility and prevent further misalignment. For swelling, *Triphala* and *Guggulu* can help balance *Kapha* and promote detoxification. Regular foot care with proper footwear that supports the arch and reduces pressure on the toes can prevent the bunion from worsening.

0 replies

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