A bunion, or Hallux Valgus, is a bony bump that forms on the side of the foot at the base of the big toe. This condition occurs due to spurring or enlargement of the joint, accompanied by the progressive shifting of the big toe. Over time, the bump tends to grow larger, leading to increased pain and discomfort.
Several factors can contribute to the development of bunions, including wearing tight-fitting shoes, engaging in certain physical activities, and underlying health conditions like gout, arthritis, neurovascular disease, or trauma. Additionally, flat feet and abnormal foot biomechanics can also lead to bunion formation. The use of tight or high-heeled shoes can exacerbate both the pain and the progression of the deformity.
Bunions are often aggravated by pressure from shoes. This can lead to the formation of a bursa—a red, inflamed area—which, when compressed, causes throbbing pain. If the swelling presses against a nerve, shooting pains may occur. If left untreated, the bunion's growth can put pressure on neighboring toes, potentially causing hammertoes, corns, callouses, and even arthritis in the joint.
