Hiking boots - stretching?

[Stew63]

I bought a pair of Scarpa Nangpa GTX hiking boots from Paddy Pallin about 2.5 years ago - they were very comfortable back then but I have not worn then for 2 years - until last week. Pulled them on and my right boot was like a torture device - appears I now have a small 'bone' or nub (or something) that has now grown out of my right foot just behind my big toe on the top edge of my foot. I also have pain wearing just a pair of Converse shoes - it's not just the boots. (Note: Wearing/running in regular runners is fine)

Q: Is it possible to have my boot stretched slightly or adjusted for 'this' small thing that has grown or would it damage the boot? Where would I take it?

[GregG]

Stew, it is possible to do this job yourself by thoroughly wetting the boot then letting it dry slowly with something jammed into the boot at the right location to stretch it at that point. This can only work to a limited amount though. But, if it was me I would go to see the GP first, or even a decent physio or podiatrist, to have the foot checked-out for a possible bone spur or bunion. Maybe have your foot fixed instead of messing around with the boot. I'm just thinking that you can't have your Scarpas bulk-billed, but your foot .....

[Stew63]

Thanks Greg - was talking to a mate today and he suggested a bone spur too. (I don't think it's a bunion) I'll head to the Dr this week and get an opinion.
Can I use the angle grinder and slice the thing off in the garage?

[GregG]

Can I use the angle grinder and slice the thing off in the garage?

Please don't say that ..... even joking ....... I get nervous enough as it is everytime I puck up an angle grinder!!!

[Joynz]

Shoe repairers can stretch shoes too - or they used to anyway.

From memory there is a special liquid you can use too.

Finally the internet has lots of suggestions : e,g. freeze a bag of water in your shoe (wikihow)

[Kott]

take the boots to a shoe repair place...they are able to stretch it out. Depending what soles your boot has the upper can stretch a fair amount.

p.s. the feet tend to shapeshift through out our lives...wearing trail runners with minimal support under a big load can also have an impact....no matter what best to see a doc about the spur.