Embarrassing Illnesses

If you decide not to have surgery, there are various treatments that can relieve pain and discomfort:

• Wear comfortable, well-fitting shoes. Avoid high-heeled, pointed and tight shoes and instead wear flat shoes that have enough room for you to move your toes. Padding over the bunion may help to prevent further rubbing. Your GP or podiatrist can advise you about the best way to do this. 
• For severe bunions, specialist wide footwear may be necessary. This is sometimes called orthopaedic footwear, and can be made to measure. If your bunion is very painful, you should talk to your GP or podiatrist about this. 
• Painkillers, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, can ease the pain caused by a bunion. If the bunion develops as a result of arthritis, other medication may be advised. Antibiotics may be needed if the bunion becomes infected. 
• Day or night splints may be worn on your feet to slow the development of bunions. They are sometimes recommended for post-operative recovery as you start to use your feet again. 
• For bunions that are linked to foot shape or the way that you walk, many podiatrists recommend wearing special insoles (orthoses). These are worn inside your shoes to correct the movement of your foot when you walk, and prevent your bunions from getting worse.