Bunions

WHAT IS A BUNION?

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A bunion is commonly referred to as a “bump” on the joint at the base of the big toe. The toe is forced to bend toward the others, causing an often painful lump of bone on the foot. Because this joint carries a lot of the body's weight while walking, bunions can cause extreme pain if left untreated. The MTP joint itself may become stiff and sore, making even the wearing of shoes difficult or impossible.

 

A bunion—from the Latin "bunio," meaning enlargement—can also occur on the outside of the foot along the little toe, where it is called a "bunionette" or "tailor's bunion."

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​SYMPTOMS

The symptoms of a bunion include the following:

• Development of a swelling, callus or firm bump on the outside edge of the foot, at the base of the big toe

• Redness, swelling, or pain at or near the MTP joint

• Development of hammertoes or calluses under the ball of the foot

• Corns or other irritations caused by the overlap of the first and second toes

• Restricted or painful motion of the big toe