She can’t even wear shoes and the specialist is booked for weeks

Gentle foot exercises can improve flexibility and alleviate tension around the bunion. One effective stretch involves using your fingers to gently pull the big toe into proper alignment, holding it for 10 seconds and repeating several times.
Another exercise is the towel scrunch. Place a towel flat on the floor and use your toes to scrunch it toward you. This exercise helps strengthen the muscles around the toes, promoting better alignment and reducing stress on the bunion. Aim to perform these stretches multiple times a day for the best results.
7. Taping and Support: How to Gently Realign the Toe at Home
Taping is a technique used to realign the toe temporarily, which can relieve pressure on the bunion. Use medical tape to wrap around the big toe and pull it into a straighter position. This gentle realignment can reduce pain and prevent the bunion from worsening.
Toe spacers, often made of silicone or gel, can also be placed between the big toe and the second toe to help maintain proper alignment. These devices are available over-the-counter and can be worn throughout the day to provide continuous support.
8. Over-the-Counter Products That Work (And What’s a Waste of Money)
Several over-the-counter products can provide relief for bunion pain. Bunion pads and gel inserts, as mentioned earlier, are effective at cushioning the area and reducing discomfort. Additionally, toe spacers can help with alignment and prevent the bunion from worsening.
However, be cautious of products that claim to permanently correct bunions without surgery. While they may offer temporary relief, they cannot alter the bone structure permanently. Focus on products that provide comfort and support rather than those that promise unrealistic results.
9. Red-Flag Symptoms That Mean You Shouldn’t Wait for the Specialist 

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