I’ve noticed ugly hard lumps forming on the outsides of my feet just below the little toes. I hate them, as they make my feet look like my grandmother’s! Are these bunions and how can I get rid of them? Vicky, by email
Dr Christian says: Bunions occur at the base of your big toe and are a deformity of the joint, whereas what you’re describing simply sound like small areas of thickened hard skin called corns. They form when a part of the foot is exposed to excessive friction, usually from shoes rubbing over months or years. They are more common in bony areas and occur as a way for the body to protect itself from this constant friction. They are usually relatively easy to treat, by filing away the excess skin – this is easier after a bath or shower when the skin is softer. Check that your favourite shoes actually fit properly, as these are almost certainly the cause!