What is the first treatment tried for bunions?

A bunion is a change in alignment around the base of the big toe. Tight or pointed shoes can press on the prominent area and aggravate irritation. Non-surgical treatment cannot reliably reverse the underlying bone alignment, but it can make walking and shoe wear more comfortable. A clinician may also check whether arthritis, stiffness, or another foot problem is contributing.

Choose shoes with a wide toe box, soft material, and enough length. Reduce activities that repeatedly rub or load the painful area, and ask a pharmacist or clinician whether an anti-inflammatory medicine is appropriate for you. Custom orthotics may alter pressure and support foot mechanics when an assessment shows they could help. Do not force the toe into a painful position.

Arrange a review if pain limits walking, footwear no longer fits, the toe becomes stiff, or symptoms continue despite sensible shoe changes. Seek prompt care for sudden severe pain, marked redness or warmth, an open sore, numbness, or an injury.

Ask whether your symptoms come from the bunion itself or another joint problem, whether imaging is useful, and how long to try non-surgical care. If comfort remains poor, ask when Bunion Surgery could be discussed.