A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe, where it meets the foot. It occurs when the joint at the base of the big toe becomes misaligned, causing the toe to push against the other toes.
Symptoms of a bunion may include:
- Pain or tenderness at the base of the big toe
- Swelling or inflammation around the joint
- Redness or irritation of the skin over the bump
- Corns or calluses on the affected area
- Restricted movement of the big toe
Bunions can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes, and certain foot conditions such as flat feet or arthritis.
Treatment for a bunion depends on the severity of the condition. In mild cases, wearing wider shoes or padding the affected area may help alleviate pain and prevent further damage. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to realign the bones and reduce the size of the bunion.
Preventing bunions involves wearing properly fitting shoes that provide adequate support and avoiding high heels or shoes with narrow toe boxes. Maintaining a healthy weight and regularly stretching and strengthening the feet and toes can also help prevent the development of bunions.