How long does anti-inflammatory medication take to work for bunions?

The medicine targets irritation and inflammation around the joint and nearby soft tissues. Relief may be less noticeable if shoes continue pressing on the prominent joint, or if the main problem is altered foot mechanics rather than inflammation. Pain returning after the medicine wears off does not mean you should take extra doses.

Use the medicine only as directed. Choose shoes with a wide toe area and avoid footwear that squeezes the big toe. A cold pack wrapped in cloth may temporarily settle soreness. Ask a clinician or podiatry professional whether a spacer, insert, or exercise plan suits your foot; these measures may reduce pressure but do not reverse the bony alignment.

Arrange an assessment if pain keeps returning, walking becomes difficult, the skin over the bunion breaks down, or the toe becomes increasingly stiff. Seek urgent help for sudden severe swelling with fever, a spreading red area, breathing difficulty, facial swelling, black stools, or vomiting blood.

Ask whether your pain is coming from the bunion joint, an overlying pressure spot, or another foot problem; how long to try the medicine; and which shoe, insert, or exercise changes are appropriate for your alignment.