Skip to main content

Columbia Orthopedics Services

Symptoms & Causes

Bunions (Hallux valgus)

Find an orthopedic specialist

What is a Bunion?

What is a Bunion?

A bunion, also called hallux valgus, is a combination of bone and joint deformity of the big toe (hallux) with perceived enlargement of the bone around the joint at the base of the big toe. It is a common foot condition that usually develops in adulthood and is more common in women than men.

Bunions can appear bigger over time and become more painful, leading to difficulty wearing regular shoes. Often, bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wide enough shoes and using other nonsurgical treatments, such as padding or toe spacers, to reduce pressure on the big toe joint. Surgery is performed to correct the bunion when it causes severe pain that is not relieved by nonsurgical treatment.

Types of Bunions

Types

Different types of bunions include:

  • Bunion of the big toe, hallux valgus is the most common and develops over time.
  • Congenital bunion describes bunions from birth. Usually, a congenital bunion is associated with a genetic condition such as cerebral palsy or a neuromuscular condition.
  • Juvenile or adolescent bunion may develop in teenagers between 10 and 15.

Progression of Bunions

Progression

The “bony bump” of the bunions can appear more prominent and become more painful over time. The condition may cause other changes in the foot. Often, the big toe starts leaning toward the second toe and eventually may push the second toe toward the third toe.

The big toe may shift under or over the second toe in severe cases. This can result in hammer toe deformity of the smaller toes. Calluses may also develop over the bunion, under the big toe, and between the toes and may increase discomfort.

More to explore

Signs & Symptoms of Bunions

Symptoms

Symptoms of a bunion include:

  • Pain and tenderness of the bump
  • Inflammation that causes the bunion bump to appear red
  • Stiffness of the big toe
  • Callus or corn on the bump

What Causes Bunions?

Causes

The exact cause of bunions is not fully understood. It is most likely a result of several factors, including genetics, certain foot structure, shoe wear, how a person walks, and other causes.

Wearing tight shoes and high heels may worsen foot deformity but are not the only primary cause that leads someone to develop bunions.

Complications

Complications

Several complications can arise from a bunion, including:

  • Bursitis – an inflammation or irritation of the bursa sac at the base of your big toe, corresponding to the perceived bump
  • Hammertoe – an abnormal bend in the middle joint of a toe
  • Metatarsalgia – a condition that causes pain in the ball of the foot

Prevention

Prevention

Preventing the development of a bunion is essential but not always possible. Wearing comfortable flat shoes with a wide toe box and not crowding the toes or pressing on the foot may help prevent bunions or slow their development.

Get Care

Trust NewYork-Presbyterian for Bunion Care

The orthopedic specialists at NewYork-Presbyterian provide comprehensive foot and ankle care, from conservative management of common foot and ankle conditions to advanced surgical treatments for complex deformities and injuries. Learn more about the foot and ankle treatments we offer. Contact us to make an appointment for consultation and treatment.