Most bunion sufferers don’t actually know the variety of solutions that exist to help relieve their pain. As a result, most bunion pain sufferers simply try and live with it. We are here to change that! Read on for solutions that have worked for some individuals with bunion pain.
Where do bunions come from anyway?
Experts believe that it is poor-fitting, closed-toe footwear that worsens bunion pain and can even cause bunions. But many times, genetics and biomechanics are a factor. A bunion is called “hallux abducto valgus” in the medical community and refers to a progressive condition where the big toe drifts laterally, causing a bump on the inner foot. It is most often hereditary, but can also be caused, or worsened, by inappropriate footwear and faulty walking patterns. When patients visit with a BioPed Foot Clinician, some of them are shocked to learn that their bunion is a result of having one leg slightly longer than the other, or from having arches that have collapsed. It is important to be assessed by someone who practices in footcare health, to better understand the cause and best solution.
Bunion pain or arthritic feet?
There is a similar condition where the “bump” is not on the inner side of your foot, but instead is on the top of the big toe joint. This causes arthritis in that joint and cold weather actually does contribute to pain whenever arthritis is present.
Relief for your bunion pain
Once your bunion cause and diagnosis are determined, it’s important to address it before the need for surgery. There are many things you can do – stretching your calf muscles daily can help if a tight calf muscle is contributing to your problem. Icing your inflamed “bump” after activity reduces inflammation. Wearing proper footwear, with stretch and extra toebox width can often accommodate even the largest bunion. Bunion sufferers benefit from wearing true, hand-crafted orthotics in each pair of shoes. This can help to slow the progression of bunion bump growth.
If you are among the many bunion sufferers who experiences corns, calluses or ingrown toenails as a result of your bunion, you should visit with a Chiropodist or Footcare Nurse for added relief. They offer a variety of treatment options, including skin and nail care and can even offer a splint to keep your toes better aligned.
Having trouble finding a go-to closed-toe shoe or a hand-crafted orthotic? Does your bunion throb even after you take off your shoes? Ask our Canadian Certified Pedorthists for help. They can recommend a shoe with an appropriate width, that can also accommodate a custom orthotic that they can hand-craft for you. Find a location by clicking here.
Additional bunion solutions
Bunion aligners

Bunion aligners gently re-align the big toe towards its natural position to help minimize bunion pain & discomfort. They can be used stand-alone with or without custom orthotics and can help delay arthritis of the big toe. Good ones should fit comfortably into shoes.
Bunion relief sleeves

Bunion Relief Sleeves work instantly to absorb pressure and are designed to be soft against the skin. The gel pads cushion the bunion joint. Good ones will fit inside footwear. Some will also provide mild compression.
Bunion night splints

Bunion Night Splints help keep your big toe aligned overnight. A soft bumper pad cushions the big toe while a strap acts as a lever to gradually align the big toe, relieving discomfort.
Gel toe spacers/ separators

Gel Toe Spacers/Separators fit between the big toe and the second toe while gently hugging the bunion to cushion and protect it from friction and pressure. Some provide vitamin E and mineral oil to soothe and soften skin. They come in slim a design fits easily in most shoes.