Welcome to our health education library. The information shared below is provided to you as an educational and informational source only and is not intended to replace a medical examination or consultation, or medical advice given to you by a physician or medical professional.
Treating Bunions
Although a bunion won't go away, wearing shoes that fit properly will often relieve the pain. Padding and icing the bunion may also help. Bunions that remain painful may need surgery.
Heels Heel height should be low.
The back of the shoe should grip
your heel firmly so the shoe doesn't
flop when you walk.
Toes There should be 1/2"
between your longest toe
and the tip of the shoe.
The shoe should be wide
enough for you to wiggle your toes.
Shoes
To relieve a bunion, you don't have to buy shoes that are ugly or out of fashion. But follow these tips:
Shop for shoes late in the day. This is when your feet are the largest.
Have both feet measured often. Fit shoes to your larger foot.
Look for shoes that have the same shape as your foot but are slightly wider across the toes.
Choose low-heeled shoes.
Always try shoes on. Stand up and walk around. If the shoes aren't comfortable, don't buy them.
Ice Massage
To help relieve a painful bunion, put an ice cube in a plastic bag. Rub the ice on the bunion for 5 minutes. Repeat 2-3 times a day.
Pads
You may want to put a pad over the bunion to cushion it. You can buy bunion pads at most drugstores.
Surgery
Wearing wider shoes and padding the bunion may not relieve the pain. Your doctor may then suggest surgery. During surgery, the bunion is shaved away and the bones are put back in a straight line.