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Bunions - Management
Basis for recommendation
- These recommendations are based on practical advice, two reviews [Ferrari, 2006; Easley and Trnka, 2007], and a guideline from the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons on the diagnosis and treatment of bunions [Vanore et al, 2003].
- Analgesics:
- CKS found no trials assessing the efficacy of paracetamol or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for bunions; however, they are widely recommended [Vanore et al, 2003; NHS Scotland, 2005].
- Self-care treatments:
- Self-care treatments, such as bunion pads and ice packs, have not been evaluated in good-quality randomized controlled trials [Ferrari, 2006]. However, they are widely recommended because it is thought that some people may gain symptomatic relief [Vanore et al, 2003].
- Night splints or orthoses:
- There is no good-quality evidence that night splints or orthoses (devices worn in shoes to provide control of the foot position) correct the hallux valgus angle or reduce pain associated with bunions.
- One small trial found that, compared with people using an orthosis, people not given an orthosis were more likely to say that they were no better off than they were 1 year previously (OR 0.38, 95% CI 0.18 to 0.78).
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