Bunions are equal parts unsightly and uncomfortable. Whether you’re on your feet all day or just trying to get from Point A to Point B, that bony bump at the base of your big toe can cause soreness, stiffness, and significant pain.
Kelly L. Geoghan, DPM, specializes in bunion treatment, and in this blog, we share five simple strategies to reduce bunion pain and keep you moving — without surgery.
Sometimes, bunion pain relief is as simple as changing your shoes. Footwear that’s too tight, narrow, or pointy can worsen your bunion pain by putting unnecessary pressure on the joint.
Here’s what to look for:
When in doubt, seek out shoes specifically designed for people with bunions. Some brands design shoes with stretchable fabric around the toe area to reduce friction and pressure.
Bunion pads are small, cushiony barriers that sit between your bunion and your shoe, and they help minimize friction and pressure while walking. You can find them at most drugstores, and they slip easily into your shoes.
For long-term support, consider seeing Dr. Geoghan for custom orthotics to realign your foot’s structure, improve your gait, and take stress off the big toe joint. These shoe inserts help stabilize your foot, slowing bunion progression and reducing daily pain.
Keeping your feet strong and flexible can help relieve stiffness and improve mobility. Even just a few minutes a day of stretching and strengthening exercises can make a difference. Try these simple movements:
These exercises can’t cure a bunion, but they can help manage symptoms and maintain joint flexibility.
Ice can offer fast relief if your bunion feels hot, swollen, or sore after a long day. Wrap a cold pack or a bag of frozen peas in a towel and apply it to your bunion for 15-20 minutes.
Do this 2-3 times daily, especially after being on your feet. The cold helps reduce inflammation and numbs the pain for temporary relief — no medications needed. Elevate your foot while icing to reduce swelling even more.
High-impact activities like running or jumping can aggravate your bunion pain. Consider switching to low-impact exercises that are easier on your joints, like swimming, cycling, or walking on flat surfaces.
Also, note how your feet feel during and after certain activities. If something consistently causes pain, it might be time to switch things up or use more supportive footwear or inserts designed for that specific activity.
If you’ve tried all the above and still struggle with daily pain, it’s time to make an appointment with Dr. Geoghan. She assesses your foot structure, rules out related issues such as arthritis or hammertoe, and helps you explore additional options, including minimally invasive treatments or surgery, if necessary.
Bunion pain doesn’t have to come with a life sentence. With a few simple tweaks to your routine, you can ease discomfort and stay active without constantly worrying about your feet.
Still not sure what your next step should be? Contact Kelly L. Geoghan, DPM, in Lutherville, Maryland, today to schedule an appointment and get answers to all of your bunion questions.
