A bunion is an enlargement of bone or tissue around the joint at the base of the big toe. The big toe may turn toward the second toe, and the tissues around the joint may become swollen and tender.
Wearing tight, narrow shoes can cause bunions. Bunions can also develop as a result of the shape of your foot, a foot deformity or a medical condition such as arthritis.
You should see your doctor or a doctor who specializes in treating foot disorders (podiatrist or orthopedic foot specialist) if you have:
- Ongoing big toe or foot pain
- A visible bump on your big toe joint
- Bunions causing decreased movement of your big toe or foot
- Difficulty finding shoes that fit properly because of a bunion
Possible complications of bunions include:
- Bursitis. This painful condition occurs when the small fluid-filled pads that cushion the bones near your joints become inflamed.
- Hammertoe. An abnormal bend that occurs in the middle joint of a toe, usually the toe next to your big toe, can cause pain and pressure.
- Metatarsalgia. This condition causes pain and swelling in the ball of your foot.
Want to learn more? Orthopedic surgeon Nicole Arcand, MD, is offering a free, virtual webinar on bunions, including non-surgical treatment options and a minimally invasive technique to correct the issue. The webinar, “Minimally Invasive Bunion Correction,” hosted by Backus Hospital, will be held on Tuesday, Jan. 24, from 5:30-6:30 p.m.
