Bunions

Bunions are bony lumps that form on the side of the feet. Surgery is the only way to get rid of them, but there are things you can do to ease any pain they cause.

You may also have pain along the side or bottom of your feet. This is usually worse when wearing shoes and walking.

You cannot get rid of bunions or stop them getting worse yourself, but there are things you can do to ease any pain.

Do

  • wear wide shoes with a low heel and soft sole

  • hold an ice pack (or a bag of frozen peas) wrapped in a tea towel to the bunion for up to 5 minutes at a time

  • try bunion pads (soft pads you put in shoes to stop them rubbing on a bunion) – you can buy these from pharmacies

  • take paracetamol or ibuprofen

  • try to lose weight if you're overweight

Don't

  • do not wear high heels or tight, pointy shoes

See a GP if:

  • pain from a bunion has not improved after trying home treatments for a few weeks
  • the pain is stopping you doing your normal activities
  • your bunions are getting worse
  • you have bunions and diabetes – foot problems can be more serious if you have diabetes

If you have bunions, a GP will look at your foot and ask you about your symptoms.

They might refer you to a foot specialist (podiatrist).

A GP or podiatrist can advise you about:

  • things you can do to ease your symptoms
  • things you can buy or have specially made to reduce bunion pain, such as insoles (orthotics), toe spacers and toe supports (splints)

You can also pay to see a foot specialist privately.

Find a podiatrist

A GP may refer you for surgery if your bunions are very painful or they're having a big effect on your life.

Surgery is not done just to improve how your feet look.

It can take a while to recover from bunion surgery.

You'll usually need to:

  • rest and keep your feet raised as much as possible for at least 2 weeks
  • avoid driving for 6 to 8 weeks
  • stay off work for 2 to 12 weeks
  • avoid sports for 3 to 6 months

After the operation:

  • your toes might be weaker or stiffer than before
  • your toes may not be perfectly straight
  • your feet may still be painful

Bunions sometimes come back after surgery.

Self-refer to a podiatrist

If you have bunions, you might be able to refer yourself directly to a podiatrist without seeing a GP.

To find out if there are any services in your area:

  • ask the reception staff at your GP surgery
  • check your GP surgery's website
  • contact your integrated care board (ICB) – find your local ICB
  • search online for NHS podiatrists near you

The cause of bunions is not always known, but you may be more likely to get them if you wear shoes that do not fit properly.

It might help to:

  • make sure your shoes are the correct size and have enough room for your toes
  • avoid shoes with high heels or pointy toes