A bunion is a bony protrusion that develops on the big toe joint. It happens when a few of the bones in the front of your foot shift. As a result, the joint at the base of your big toe protrudes and the tip of your big toe is pulled towards the smaller toes. The skin surrounding the bunion may be inflamed and red.
Bunions may develop from wearing tight, narrow shoes, or they may worsen. In addition to being caused by foot deformities, bunions can also arise from medical conditions like arthritis or by the way your foot is shaped.
Your little toe’s joint may develop smaller bunions, or unionettes.
Symptoms
A bunion’s telltale signs and symptoms consist of:
- A protruding lump near the base of your big toe
- Redness, swelling, or soreness around the joint of your big toe
- Calluses, also known as corns, frequently form in the areas where the first and second toes touch.
- Pain that is constant or sporadic Restricted mobility in your big toe
Causes
The exact cause of bunions is unknown, despite the fact that numerous theories have been proposed. Probably among the factors are:
- Inherited foot type
- Stress or injuries to the feet
- Birth defects
The question of whether footwear merely aids in the development of bunions or if tight, high-heeled, or excessively narrow shoes are sources of disagreement among experts.
Certain types of arthritis, especially inflammatory ones like rheumatoid arthritis, may be linked to bunions.
Prevention
Make careful shoe selections to help avoid bunions. There should be room between the tip of your longest toe and the end of the shoe, and they should have a broad toe box with no pointy toes.
Your shoes should fit your feet like a glove, without pressing or squeezing any area of your foot.
