Hallux Valgus/Bunion: Email Advice

Thank you so much for taking the time to provide this advice! I am a 30 yo with hereditary hallux valgus. I rarely ever had bunion pain - even through 16 years as a ballet dancer and 4 years on pointe! About 6 months ago I took up two new hobbies: a Japanese martial art called katori and ballroom dancing and my MTP joints have started aching. These conservative options are exactly what I was looking for in hopes that I can slow the bunion progression. I'm especially grateful for your recommendation of a night splint. I spent hours reviewing these but could never decide which is best and which are bogus. 

http://www.drblakeshealingsole.com/2012/07/how-to-conservatively-treat-bunions.html

I have a few questions, if you’re still monitoring this thread and have the time to answer:
1. What is your opinion on menthol-containing products like Tiger Balm and Biofreeze? Would they be a good idea in conjunction with the massage? Definitely!!
2. I found one video you posted on bunion taping (incidentally, I have learned a lot on Lisa Howell’s site). Would that work with Rocktape? Definitely!! If not, might you recommend a method for bunion taping with Rocktape? There are so many options for taping that I have no idea where to start. 

http://www.drblakeshealingsole.com/2011/05/taping-with-kinesiotape-for-bunions.html

3. I also found the video you posted demonstrating metatarsal doming exercises, and I’m eager to start those. Are there any other exercises you recommend for strengthening the small muscles of the feet? (Besides the balancing one in another of your blog posts on bunion care – I can balance on each foot with my eyes closed, but I make sure to do that regularly!)

http://www.drblakeshealingsole.com/2015/07/bunion-and-general-foot-strengthening.html

I would really appreciate any advice. I’ve read through much of your blog and you seem like exactly the type of podiatrist I would like to find! I will, of course, go see a local podiatrist, but it will be a few months before I can see one on my HMO plan and I want to start as soon as possible to relieve pain and, most importantly, slow the progression of the deformity.

Dr Blake's comment: Thanks for your kind words. I hope this helps some. Rich