MD Podiatrist Explains Difference between Gout and Bunion Pain

Unlike a gout attack, which is more waxing and waning and is typically relieved by a short course of medication, bunion pain can be more longstanding, explains podiatrist Daniel Michaels, DPM. When it comes to bunions, Dr. Michaels says the pressure from too narrow and tight shoes can cause pain while the shoes are on and after you take the shoes off.
 
 
We often think bunions come from cramming our feet into shoes that are too tight day after day-including uncomfortable high heels. This is a significant factor, but there are other things that raise the risk for developing bunions, Dr. Michaels says. For example, if you have loose ligaments where the metatarsal bone (the long bone that connects your toes to the ankle) swings toward the second toes, it can push back on the metatarsal bone, making a barely noticeable bunion worse over time, Dr. Michaels explains.