Bunions are not only unsightly but can be painful even to the point where wearing shoes is unbearable. The technical name for a bunion is value valgus and appear when years of abnormal motion occurs at a point where the joint at the bottom of the big toe moves out of place. This pressure causes the big toe to bend at an angle towards the other toes and a lump to develop on the joint. Bunions can arise from the way one walks, type of shoes worn or are sometimes hereditary. Due to the prevalence of unsuitable shoes worn, women are far more prone to bunions than men are. Bunions are more painful for those with stiff joints or arthritis.

Unfortunately, bunions can only be removed surgically but there are steps you can take to make them more comfortable to live with or to slow down a bunion’s progression. One of the best steps is to wear the right shoes – low heeled with ample space for the toes and widest part of the foot. It also helps to maintain a healthy weight to relieve pressure on the joint. Custom orthotics can also help to maintain the proper foot position. For pain relief, taking an anti-inflammatory drug such as ibuprofen can also help along with warm soaks, ice packs and massage