A bunion is an abnormal, bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of your big toe. Your big toe joint becomes enlarged, forcing the toe to crowd against your other toes. This puts pressure on your big toe joint, pushing it outward beyond the normal profile of your foot, and resulting in pain. Bunions can also occur on the joint of your little toe (tailor’s bunion).

While tight-fitting shoes can contribute to developing bunions, the underlying biomechanics of the lower extremity is the primary factor. Early intervention can prevent bunions from becoming larger and more painful. Often, treatment involves conservative steps that may include changing your shoes, padding your bunion and wearing shoe inserts. Severe cases may require surgery to relieve the pain.