Preventing and Treating Bunions Go to Main Menu.
Bunions can become swollen and painful at times.
Often hereditary, bunions may also be caused or aggravated by spreading of the forefoot, tight shoes, high heels and arthritis. To prevent bunions or to lessen the pain from them, wear shoes with a wide toe box. Warm soaks may also relieve the pain. Bunion surgery, known as a bunionectomy, is sometimes the only way to eliminate the pain. This allows the bones to grow back without the inward and outward orientation which causes bunions.