Overview
A bunion is a bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of the big toe. It happens when some of the bones in the front part of the foot move out of their regular position. This causes the big toe to get pulled toward the smaller toes. It also forces the joint at the base of your big toe to stick out. The skin over the bunion might change in color and feel sore.
Wearing tight, narrow shoes might cause bunions or make them worse. Bunions also can form due to the shape of the foot, a foot defect or a condition such as arthritis.
Smaller bunions, called bunionettes, can form on the joint of the little toe.
Bunion
With a bunion, the big toe shifts toward the smaller toes, crowding them. This also forces the joint at the base of the big toe to stick out.
Bunionette
A smaller bunion, called a bunionette, can form on the joint of the little toe.
Symptoms
The symptoms of a bunion include:
- A bulging bump on the outside of the base of the big toe.
- Swelling, a change in color or soreness around the big toe joint.
- Corns or calluses — these often form where the first and second toes rub against each other.
- Ongoing pain or pain that comes and goes.
- Stiffness or limited movement of the big toe, which could lead to trouble walking.
- Hard skin on the sole of the foot.
When to see a doctor
Bunions often don't need medical treatment. But some symptoms should be checked by a member of your health care team. Or you could see a doctor who treats foot conditions, called a podiatrist, or an orthopedic foot specialist. Get a checkup if you have:
- Ongoing pain in the big toe or foot.
- A bump on the big toe joint.
- Less movement in the big toe or foot.
- Trouble finding shoes that fit properly because of a bunion.
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Causes
Many theories exist about how bunions form. But the exact cause isn't clear. Factors likely include:
- Inherited foot type.
- Foot stress or injuries.
- Defects present at birth.
Experts disagree on the role that shoes play. Some say that tight, high-heeled or narrow shoes cause bunions. Others say that footwear simply contributes to bunions forming.
Bunions might be linked with some types of arthritis. The link is especially strong with types of arthritis that involve painful swelling due to a problem with the immune system. These conditions include rheumatoid arthritis.
Risk factors
These factors might raise the risk of bunions:
- High heels. Wearing high heels forces the toes into the front of the shoes. Often, this crowds the toes.
- Shoes that fit poorly. People who wear shoes that are too tight, too narrow or too pointed are more likely to get bunions.
- Rheumatoid arthritis. Having this condition can make you more likely to get bunions.
- Genes. The tendency to get bunions might be due to an inherited problem with the structure or anatomy of the foot.
Complications
Bunions can lead to health problems that include:
- Bursitis. With this condition, the small fluid-filled pads that cushion the bones near the joints become inflamed. This leads to pain.
- Hammertoe. This is an irregular bend that happens in the middle joint of a toe. Usually, it affects the toe next to the big toe. It can cause pain and pressure.
- Metatarsalgia. This condition causes pain and swelling in the ball of the foot.
Prevention
To help prevent bunions, choose shoes carefully. They should be supportive and have a wide toe box — no pointy toes. There also should be space between the tip of your longest toe and the end of the shoe.
Your shoes should match the shape of your feet without squeezing or pressing any part of your foot.
