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National Bunion Day

Feet are something that people often take for granted – until something goes wrong with them! With approximately 65 millions Americans impacted by the pain and discomfort caused by bunions, it just makes sense that there would be a day to promote and raise awareness about this foot condition.

Body & Health Healthcare62

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Position podiatry practices and bunion-correction specialists as trusted educators during peak awareness month, driving patient consultations and treatment inquiries.

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Patient success stories: before/after testimonials from bunion correction patients
Expert Q&A: podiatrist myths-busting content addressing common bunion misconceptions
Screening offer: foot doctors invite new patients for complimentary bunion assessments during April
Educational series: facts, causes, and treatment options for the 65M+ Americans affected

History

A fairly newly founded event, National Bunion Day was first celebrated in 2024 when it was established through the efforts of Treace Medical Concepts.

This company is focused on bunion correction and works to educate the public toward a better understanding of bunions along with effective treatment options.

National Bunion Day is celebrated by podiatrists and other medical professionals, as well as patients who are invited to share their stories of successful correction and life after bunions.

The inaugural event included shared support for raising awareness by many different parties, including GoodRx, TIME, and dozens of other media publications.

Blog articles, on-site activities, physician interviews and many other forms of celebration took place during this original event.

How to celebrate

Raise Awareness About Bunions

Podiatrists, medical practitioners, satisfied patients and many others might be interested in celebrating National Bunion Day by sharing what they know! Foot doctors might invite new patients in for a screening or provide information to their patients through online resources and in-person consultations.

Tell Your Own Bunion Story

For patients who have experienced painful and uncomfortable bunions and have gotten help from a surgeon, National Bunion Day might be just the time to make your story known. Perhaps someone else would be inspired to seek out help from a podiatrist or orthopedic surgeon. Write a blog, make a post on social media or find some other way to share about the relief you’ve gotten after having suffered with bunions.

Get Advice from the Experts

National Bunion Day has brought about a number of different online Q&A opportunities with different foot doctors and experts! Check out the official website for the day and get links to a number of different posts including myths, facts and figures, causes of bunions and so much more. Learn More About BunionsOne of the most important purposes behind National Bunion Day is the point of raising awareness about these painful foot issues and improving knowledge.There are many misconceptions in the world about bunions and this event is designed to improve access to correct information.Check out these important facts about bunions to get started:A bunion is a bony bump at the base of the big toeBunions are formed when some of the bones at the front of the foot move out of placeWhile many people think bunions may come from certain shoes, many bunions are caused by hereditary defects in the foot but may also be impacted by life changes such as pregnancy or agingBunions will not go away on their own with time – they require medical intervention for a healthy foot going forward

FAQ

Are bunions always caused by wearing tight or high-heeled shoes?

Bunions are not always caused by footwear. Many people inherit a structural tendency in the foot that makes bunions more likely, such as flat feet or loose ligaments. Ill‑fitting or high‑heeled shoes can increase pressure on the big toe joint and speed up the development or worsening of a bunion, but they are usually a contributing factor rather than the sole cause.

Can bunions be reversed without surgery?

Non-surgical treatments can relieve pain and slow progression but they do not reverse the bony deformity once it is established. Changes like wider shoes, pads, toe spacers, orthotics, and anti-inflammatory medicine can make walking more comfortable. Only surgery can realign the bones when a bunion is moderate or severe, although mild changes in early stages may improve with careful management and pressure relief.

How can someone tell the difference between a bunion and arthritis in the big toe?

Both bunions and arthritis can cause pain and stiffness in the big toe joint, but they look and behave differently. A bunion usually appears as a bump on the side of the foot with the big toe drifting toward the smaller toes, while arthritis in the big toe (hallux rigidus) tends to limit up‑and‑down motion more than sideways drift. A clinician confirms the diagnosis with a physical exam and X‑rays that show joint space, bone alignment, and signs of wear.

Do bunions always get worse over time?

Bunions are generally considered a progressive condition, but the speed and extent of progression vary widely. In some people the deformity changes very little for years, especially if they reduce pressure on the joint with roomier shoes and supports. Others may notice a steady increase in size and symptoms. Regular monitoring, early management, and addressing factors like footwear and occupational stress can slow or limit worsening for many individuals.

Are bunions common in children and teenagers, or only in older adults?

Bunions can appear in children and adolescents, especially when there is a strong family history or underlying conditions such as ligament laxity or flat feet. Pediatric and adolescent bunions may progress more quickly because the bones are still growing. Specialists often start with conservative care for younger patients and reserve surgery for severe or painful cases after growth patterns are better understood.

Can changing footwear really make a difference once someone already has a bunion?

Switching to shoes with a wide toe box, low heels, and supportive soles often reduces pain by relieving pressure on the bunion and improving foot mechanics. While this does not correct bone alignment, it can decrease inflammation, corns, and calluses around the joint and may help prevent rapid progression. Footwear changes are usually a first‑line recommendation from podiatrists before considering more invasive options.

What should someone consider before deciding on bunion surgery?

Before choosing surgery, patients are advised to weigh their pain level, impact on daily activities, overall health, and expectations for recovery. Surgeons look at the severity and type of deformity, joint condition, and any coexisting problems such as arthritis or flat feet when recommending a specific procedure. Recovery can involve weeks in protective footwear and limited activity, so timing and support at home and work are important practical considerations.