Overview
A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe when the toe gradually leans toward the others and the joint pushes outward. It develops slowly over years and can be made worse by tight, pointed footwear. It causes pain, swelling and difficulty finding comfortable shoes. Many bunions are managed with roomier footwear, padding and pain relief; a painful, severe bunion that limits walking can be corrected with surgery.
Symptoms
- A bony bump on the outer side of the base of the big toe
- The big toe leaning toward the other toes
- Pain and swelling over the joint
- Redness and hard skin over the bump
- Difficulty wearing normal shoes
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if a bunion is painful, growing, or making it hard to walk or wear shoes.
Causes
An inherited foot shape and joint tendency, worsened by tight, narrow or high-heeled footwear; also linked to some types of arthritis.