Do your feet hurt near the big toe? Is there a bump on the side? You may have a bunion. Bunions can make walking hard and painful. But the good news is — help is here.
At the Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona in Scottsdale, Dr. Kris A. DiNucci, our bunion surgery specialist, helps people walk without pain. He shares helpful tips to ease bunion pain and stop it from getting worse.
Let’s look at the top 5 tips to keep your feet healthy and bunion pain-free.
Wear the Right Shoes
Wearing tight shoes makes bunions worse. Pointed or narrow shoes push your toes together. This causes pain and swelling. Choose shoes with:
- A wide toe box
- Soft soles
- Good arch support
- No high heels
Shoes should give your toes room to move. The American Podiatric Medical Association recommends shoes with soft padding and firm support. Source
Use Custom Orthotics
Custom orthotics are special inserts for your shoes. They help fix how your foot moves. They also take pressure off the bunion.
At our center, Dr. Kris A. DiNucci checks how your feet move and stand. Then, he makes inserts just for you. These inserts can:
- Slow bunion growth
- Ease foot pain
- Support your arch
According to a study in Foot & Ankle International, orthotics reduce bunion pain in many patients. Source
Try Simple Foot Exercises
Stretching and moving your feet helps. It keeps your toes strong and flexible. Try these simple moves each day:
- Toe stretches
- Picking up small items with your toes
- Rolling your foot on a ball
These help your muscles stay strong and ease pain. Dr. DiNucci often shows his patients how to do these moves at home.
Ice and Rest
If your bunion hurts or looks red, try ice. Wrap ice in a towel and put it on the bump for 15–20 minutes. This can reduce swelling and ease pain.
Rest your feet when you can. If you stand or walk a lot, take breaks. Don’t push through the pain — this can make the bunion worse.
Consider Surgery When Needed
Sometimes bunions get very painful. You may have trouble walking or fitting into shoes. In these cases, surgery may help.
As a bunion surgery specialist, Dr. Kris A. DiNucci uses gentle, modern methods. Many patients walk again within days.
Surgery can:
- Fix the shape of your foot
- Stop the pain
- Help you move better
Every foot is different. Dr. DiNucci will help you decide if surgery is right for you.
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons says bunion surgery is safe and helpful for many people. Source
How Dr. DiNucci Helps His Patients
Dr. Kris A. DiNucci takes time to learn about your foot pain. He checks your feet, your walk, and your daily habits. He makes a plan just for you.
Whether you need custom orthotics, shoe advice, or surgery, he will guide you every step.
At the Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona, we help you walk without pain. Our staff is kind, our clinic is clean, and we make sure you feel safe and cared for.
FAQs
Can bunions go away on their own?
No. Bunions do not go away without care. But they can stop getting worse with the right help.
When should I see a doctor for my bunion?
See a bunion surgery specialist like Dr. DiNucci if walking hurts, shoes don’t fit, or the bump gets bigger.
Is bunion surgery painful?
Modern bunion surgery uses gentle steps. Most patients feel only mild pain and walk again in a few days.
Conclusion
Bunions can slow you down. But you don’t have to live with foot pain. With the right care, you can walk comfortably again.
Dr. Kris A. DiNucci is a trusted bunion surgery specialist who helps patients across Arizona. At the Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona, we care about your feet — and your life.
Need help with bunion pain? Contact us today through our Contact Us or Request an Appointment page. We’re here to help you walk pain-free again.

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