A painful, bony bump on the side of your foot can be frustrating, limiting your ability to walk comfortably and making it difficult to find shoes that fit. If you’ve noticed such a bump near your big toe, chances are you’re dealing with a bunion.

A bunion (medically known as hallux valgus) is a bony protrusion that forms at the base of the big toe joint, where the toe meets the foot. It occurs when the big toe leans inward toward the second toe, causing the joint to jut outward. This misalignment can lead to pain, inflammation, and even arthritis in the joint.

While some people are genetically predisposed to developing bunions due to foot structure, they can also be caused or exacerbated by wearing ill-fitting shoes, especially high heels or narrow-toed footwear. Bunions tend to worsen over time, leading to increasing discomfort and mobility challenges if left untreated.

The main indication of a bunion is a visible bump on the side of your foot at the base of the big toe. However, other symptoms may include:

Persistent pain or tenderness at the site of the bunion.

Swelling and redness around the joint.

Restricted movement of the big toe, making it harder to walk or flex the toe.

Corns or calluses where the toes rub against each other due to misalignment.

Thickened skin at the base of the big toe.

Bunions develop as a result of uneven pressure on the foot, often related to poor foot mechanics or wearing tight or narrow shoes. Common causes include:

Genetics: If bunions run in your family, you’re more likely to develop them. Some people are born with foot structures that are prone to bunions.

Footwear choices: Wearing shoes that are too tight, narrow, or have high heels can put pressure on the big toe, forcing it into an abnormal position over time.

Arthritis: Certain forms of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis, can increase the likelihood of developing bunions due to joint inflammation and instability.

Foot injuries: Trauma to the foot can sometimes lead to the formation of a bunion.

Flat feet or abnormal walking patterns: These issues can contribute to uneven pressure on the feet, worsening the condition.