Hosting for the Holidays? How to Manage Bunion Pain

More than 100 million American adults are living with bunions, and the pain these bony growths cause doesn’t take a break during the holidays. If you have bunions, the extra walking and standing during the holidays can quickly turn a cheerful season into one filled with aching, throbbing feet.

At Alpine Foot and Ankle, skilled podiatrist Dr. Andrew McCall provides expert, compassionate care for patients dealing with bunions and other painful foot conditions. If you're preparing for holiday hosting and want to get ahead of bunion discomfort, here’s how to protect your feet and keep the pain from slowing you down.

What triggers bunion pain?

A bunion forms when the big toe gradually shifts toward the second toe, causing the joint at the base of the big toe to jut outward. Pressure, friction, and inflammation in this area make standing and walking painful, especially during long days on your feet.

Holiday activities — such as standing in the kitchen for hours of food prep, running errands, climbing stairs, and wearing dress shoes — often aggravate bunions and can cause painful flare-ups.

Managing bunion pain as a holiday host

Hours on your feet or in tight shoes can be tough when your bunions act up. Here are some simple, effective ways to reduce bunion pain and keep your feet comfortable throughout the season.

Choose supportive footwear (even at home)

It’s tempting to slip into festive heels or stylish narrow dress shoes, but certain styles of shoes can make bunion pain much worse. To minimize irritation, choose shoes with:

• A wide toe box
• Good arch support
• A stable, cushioned sole

Even when you’re at home preparing for guests, supportive footwear matters. Soft, structured house shoes or athletic shoes can significantly reduce pressure. If you need to dress up, consider low-heeled or flat shoes with enough room for your toes to move comfortably.

Use pads, spacers, and orthotics for added relief

Bunion pads and gel toe spacers can help reduce friction and align your toes more comfortably. Orthotic inserts offer additional support and redistribute pressure, making it easier to stay on your feet longer without pain.

At Alpine Foot and Ankle, Dr. McCall can recommend custom orthotics based on your foot structure and activity level. The right insert can make a noticeable difference during long days celebrating the holidays.

Rest and ice between holiday tasks

Even with great shoes, your feet need breaks. Give yourself scheduled downtime. Sit for a few minutes while prepping vegetables, decorate in stages, or ask family members to help with lifting and carrying. Short rest periods keep inflammation from building up.

Icing the bunion for 10-15 minutes after long periods of standing can help calm soreness and swelling. Consistent icing during the busy holiday week can prevent flare-ups from getting worse.

Consider professional treatment if symptoms worsen

Bunion pain shouldn’t be something you just live with, especially if it interferes with your daily activities. If the joint becomes swollen, red, or painful even with supportive shoes, it’s time to see a podiatrist.

Dr. McCall offers a range of treatments, from conservative options like physical therapy and padding to advanced solutions when needed. The goal is always to keep you active, comfortable, and able to enjoy the holiday season and beyond without constant foot pain.

Keep the holidays joyful

Hosting during the holidays is rewarding, but it shouldn’t come at the expense of your foot health. With smart preparation and the right care, you can reduce bunion pain and stay comfortable from the first guest’s arrival to the last dish washed.

If bunion pain has been slowing you down, contact Alpine Foot and Ankle in Idaho Falls, Idaho, or Alpine, Wyoming, to schedule a consultation. Let our team help you move through the holiday season with ease and comfort.