Bunions are a bony bump, usually at the bottom of the big toe. Bunions are painful deformity of the bones and the joint between the big toe and the foot. Bunions could have developed via long-term irritation (inflammation) from arthritis, loosely fitting shoes, and heredity, any of which can cause this joint at the base of the big toe to thicken and enlarge.
When the angle between the bones of the big and second toes is bigger than normal, the big toe moves towards the second toe and will usually goes over or under it. In some cases the adjacent toes begin to buckle or become a "hammertoe".
Bunions (excess or misaligned bone in the joint) and are one of the most common big toe problems. 9 out of 10 bunions happen to women. 9 out of 10 women wear shoes that are too small.
Bunions change the shape of your foot, making it even harder to find shoes that fit. But you do not have to hobble for the rest of your life.
To lessen the chance of developing bunions, choose shoes that accommodate the shape of your feet; many bunions are caused by poorly-fitting shoes, which may be too tight, short, or sharply pointed.
Bunions can be treated, and with your podiatrist's help, your feet can feel and look better. All you need is a bunion removal.