Bunion Symptoms

A bunion is a bony growth on the foot. It can form outside the big toe or the pinkie toe. Bunions can be unsightly and prevent the wearing of tight, fashionable shoes. More importantly, bunions can be very painful.

Causes

• Bunions can be caused by heredity, tight-fitting shoes, injury, arthritis or birth deformities. Dancer and cowboys are prone to bunions due to their tight-fitting shoes and boots.

Bulging Bone

• A bunion is very noticeable, with a bulging bump on the outside of the foot beneath the big toe. When the bump appears beneath the pinkie toe it is called a bunionette.

Swelling

• The area around the bunion may become swollen. It can also be red in color and feel hot.

Skin

• The skin around the bunion may become thick. Corns and calluses can also form as a result.

Pain

• A bunion can be extremely painful. The pain can be constant or may be relieved when loose shoes are worn or shoes are removed.

Movement

• A bunion may restrict movement in the affected toe or area. The toe may be difficult to move and bend.