Living with Bunions: One Redditor’s 30-Year Journey and What You Can Learn
If you’ve ever dealt with bunion pain, you understand it’s much more than a cosmetic issue—it’s an ongoing struggle that can significantly impact your mobility and quality of life. A compelling account shared by a 60-year-old user in the r/bunions subreddit sheds light on the long-term consequences of bunion surgery, the chronic pain that can persist decades later, and the emotional toll of living with foot deformities.
This article explores their experience and provides expert-backed advice on how to manage bunions—both surgically and non-surgically—based on current podiatric guidelines.
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Key Takeaways
- Bunion surgery isn’t always a permanent fix—symptoms may return or worsen over time.
- Non-surgical solutions like orthotic sleeves, proper footwear, and physical therapy can significantly reduce pain.
- Early intervention is crucial to slow the progression of bunions and avoid surgery.
- Reoperation is common; about 10–15% of patients may require revision surgery (American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons).
- Emotional support and lifestyle adaptation are key elements of long-term bunion care.
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A Personal Account: What This Redditor’s Story Reveals
This Redditor’s story is more than anecdotal—it mirrors the experience of thousands managing bunion-related complications.
1. Surgery Isn’t Always a Permanent Fix
At 29, they underwent bunion surgery that included pin insertion. Even after hardware removal, the foot remained disfigured for over two decades. By age 55, pain intensified, revealing that:
- Bunion recurrence is possible, especially if post-op care or biomechanics aren't addressed.
- According to a 2020 study in Foot & Ankle International, recurrence rates vary but can be as high as 30% depending on the surgical technique used.
2. Lifestyle Changes Become Necessary
Once passionate about running, the user switched to low-impact activities like biking and swimming—an example of how chronic bunion pain can alter your lifestyle.
“Activities that reduce pressure on the forefoot are critical for long-term bunion management,” explains Dr. Jacqueline Sutera, DPM, a New York-based podiatric surgeon.
3. Anxiety About Repeat Surgery Is Real
Now facing a second surgery at 60, the user expressed understandable fear and hesitation—a sentiment echoed by many who’ve previously undergone bunion operations.
“Bunion revision surgery has longer recovery times and more potential complications,” says Dr. Neal Blitz, DPM, a foot and ankle reconstructive surgeon.
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When Is Bunion Surgery Worth It?
Bunion surgery may be recommended when:
- Pain persists even when resting
- Daily activities, like walking or wearing shoes, become difficult
- There’s significant toe deformity or associated arthritis
However, surgery should be a last resort after trying conservative treatments.
“There’s no one-size-fits-all solution,” emphasizes the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS). “Surgical decisions should be based on pain, function, and deformity—not appearance.”
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Non-Surgical Options for Bunion Relief
Before considering surgery—or if you're not a surgical candidate—these expert-recommended solutions can help manage pain and slow progression.
🔹 Bunion Sleeves and Correctors
These products gently realign the toe and reduce friction inside shoes:
- Provide immediate relief from pressure and tenderness
- Ideal for daily wear, especially during activity
4.9 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ( 1843 reviews )
🔹 Orthopedic Footwear
- Look for shoes with a wide toe box and extra cushioning.
- Custom orthotics can redistribute pressure and enhance foot alignment.
🔹 Physical Therapy
- Exercises that strengthen the foot and ankle can prevent further misalignment.
- Stretching improves joint mobility and reduces stiffness.
🔹 Anti-inflammatory Treatments
- NSAIDs like ibuprofen can relieve acute pain.
- Natural options like castor oil or Epsom salt soaks may reduce inflammation.
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Why Prevention and Early Action Matter
The Redditor’s story is a cautionary tale: waiting too long or hoping pain will resolve on its own can lead to decades of discomfort and multiple surgeries.
Start early by:
- Wearing proper shoes
- Using bunion sleeves or orthotics
- Monitoring progression with a podiatrist
- Avoiding high heels and narrow footwear
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Practical Tips & Real-World Applications
- ✅ Switch to low-impact workouts like cycling or swimming
- ✅ Use bunion sleeves during work hours or long walks
- ✅ Massage the area with anti-inflammatory oils after activity
- ✅ See a podiatrist yearly to monitor bunion progression
- ✅ Invest in custom orthotics if your gait is affected
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FAQs About Living with Bunions
Q: Do bunions get worse over time?
Yes, bunions are often progressive, especially when untreated. They may worsen with age, activity, or poor footwear choices.
Q: Can bunions go away on their own?
No. Bunions do not resolve without intervention. Conservative treatments can manage symptoms but won’t reverse the deformity.
Q: Is bunion surgery painful?
Some post-surgical discomfort is expected, but most patients report manageable pain. Recovery can take 6–12 weeks depending on the procedure.
Q: Are bunion sleeves effective?
Yes, especially for reducing pain, preventing friction, and slowing the progression of deformity when used consistently.
Q: What causes bunions to return after surgery?
Factors include genetics, poor footwear, improper healing, or incomplete correction during the initial surgery.
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Final Thoughts: Is It Time to Rethink Your Bunion Strategy?
The Redditor’s 30-year journey is a powerful reminder that bunions are more than a bump on your foot—they’re a medical condition that requires proactive care. Whether you're avoiding surgery or recovering from one, early action and consistent treatment are key to long-term relief.
Thousands have found comfort in non-invasive methods like bunion sleeves, supportive shoes, and home therapies. Don’t wait for pain to take over your life—start managing your bunions today.
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Recommended HalluxCare Bunion Relief Products
If you're looking for relief from bunion pain, consider using the Orthopedic Bunion Pain Relief & Correction Sleeve , which provides support and helps to alleviate discomfort.
For additional protection, the Tailor's Bunion Bunionette Pain Relief Protection Sleeves are designed to offer comfort and protection for bunionette pain.
To nourish and soothe the skin around bunions, as well as to promote healthy hair, consider the Jamaica Black Castor Oil Soothing Oil . Known for its moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties, it helps alleviate discomfort around bunions and supports hair growth and scalp health.
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Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider before beginning any treatment for bunions or other foot conditions.
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Disclosures
This article contains affiliate product links to HalluxCare. We may earn a small commission if you purchase through these links at no additional cost to you. We only recommend products we believe support your health and well-being.
_Last Updated: June 2025_ _Author: Dr. Karen Miles, DPM – Board-Certified Podiatrist & Medical Wellness Writer_