Which conservative management strategies are effective for treating common foot conditions such as bunions and corns?

Effective conservative management strategies for common foot conditions such as bunions and corns include:

• Footwear modification: Advising the use of well-fitting, comfortable shoes with a wide toe box to reduce pressure on bunions and corns is a key conservative approach.
• Padding and orthotic devices: Use of protective padding or orthotic insoles can help redistribute pressure away from the affected areas, alleviating pain and preventing progression.
• Regular foot care: Routine care such as gentle debridement of corns by trained healthcare professionals and maintaining skin hydration can prevent complications.
• Patient education: Providing clear oral and written information about foot care, footwear advice, and when to seek medical help is essential for effective management.

These strategies aim to reduce mechanical stress and prevent further deformity or skin breakdown, thereby managing symptoms conservatively without surgery. While the provided NICE guideline context focuses primarily on diabetic foot problems, the principles of footwear advice, pressure redistribution, and patient education are applicable to common foot conditions like bunions and corns in general practice settings ¹.