Bunions

Bunions are bony bumps that form at the base of the big toe when the joint becomes misaligned. This causes the big toe to lean toward the other toes, leading to a visible protrusion on the side of the foot. Bunions develop gradually and can cause discomfort, pain, and difficulty wearing shoes. They are common in adults and tend to worsen over time if not managed.

Symptoms

Symptoms of bunions may vary in severity and can progress slowly. Common symptoms include:

• A visible bump on the side of the big toe

• Swelling, redness, or soreness around the joint

• Pain that worsens with pressure or tight footwear

• Limited movement of the big toe

• Thickened skin or calluses on the foot

In some cases, bunions may cause overlapping toes or foot deformities.

Causes

Bunions form when pressure and stress affect the alignment of the big toe joint. Common causes include:

• Wearing tight, narrow, or high-heeled shoes

• Inherited foot structure or abnormal foot mechanics

• Arthritis affecting the toe joint

• Repeated stress or injury to the foot

• Conditions that affect muscle or joint balance

Footwear alone does not cause bunions but can worsen existing problems.

Risk factors

Several factors increase the likelihood of developing bunions:

• Family history of bunions

• Wearing poorly fitting or narrow shoes

• Female sex

• Flat feet or abnormal foot structure

• Rheumatoid arthritis or other joint conditions

Bunions are less common in people who rarely wear shoes.

Complications

If bunions are left untreated, they can lead to additional foot problems:

• Chronic pain and inflammation

• Bursitis near the affected joint

• Hammertoes or other toe deformities

• Difficulty walking or standing for long periods

• Reduced quality of life due to foot discomfort

Early management can help slow progression and reduce discomfort.

Prevention

While bunions cannot always be prevented, certain steps may reduce the risk or limit progression:

• Wearing shoes with a wide toe box and good support

• Avoiding high heels or narrow footwear

• Maintaining a healthy weight to reduce foot pressure

• Using protective pads or orthotic supports if recommended

• Addressing foot pain early with proper footwear and care

Proper foot care and footwear choices play a key role in preventing bunion-related problems.