what are bunions

A bunion is a bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of the big toe. It occurs when some of the bones in the front part of the foot move out of place, causing the tip of the big toe to get pulled toward the smaller toes and forcing the joint at the base of the big toe to stick out. The skin over the bunion might be red and sore, and wearing tight, narrow shoes might cause bunions or make them worse. Bunions can also develop as a result of the shape of the foot, a foot deformity, or a medical condition such as arthritis. Smaller bunions, known as bunionettes, can develop on the joint of the little toe. Symptoms of bunions include ongoing big toe or foot pain, a visible bump on the big toe joint, decreased movement of the big toe or foot, and difficulty finding shoes that fit properly because of a bunion. Bunions can be caused by a combination of factors, including inherited foot type, foot stress or injuries, deformities present at birth, ill-fitting shoes, rheumatoid arthritis, and heredity. Treatment for bunions usually involves wearing properly fitting shoes and treating any symptoms like pain and stiffness. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the deformity.