Painful Bunion's

[cherrybomb]

My daughter who is 12yrs old has suffered from juvenile rheumatoid arthritis for six years. To make matters worse she has also got Bunions on both feet (one is worse than the other) Her hospital specialist referred her to the orthapedic dept and last week we attended her first appointment. The consultant has said that he would like to wait until she is about 14yrs old before recommending an operation as her feet are still growing. My daughter is in agony some days and shoes cost me a fortune. We have tried pads and gel cushions. Can any sufferers help with tips or know any specialist shoe makers?

Thank you in advance  

[philandlil]

There is some information on the following link that may be useful.

www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk/en.asp?TopicID=82&AreaID=3790&LinkID=2865

[doc_steve]

Until your daughter can get a bunionectomy there really isnt much more that can be done. The main thing now is to prevent the condition getting any worse and minimise the pain. To reduce pain and swelling try holding an ice pack on the joint for 15 mins in the morning, and 15 mins before she goes to bed. Its a bit of a nuisance, but if it helps it is ideal to do it during the day aswell. There are also many devices available at Chemists such as bunion pads, shields and splints. Now these wont make the bunion any better or correct the problem, but they are designed to make the area as comfortable as possible, so worth a try. I personnaly would try the bunion shield. This is designed to reduce pain over the bunion joint. It provides cushioning and support. It deflects undue rubbing from the shoe, absorbs lateral shock and prevents friction. They cost about �10.

Hope this is of some help.