A bunion (hallux abducto valgus) is a deformity characterized by a bony bump at the base of the great toe. Bunions form when pressure is applied to the side of the great toe. This forces it to turn inwards and sometimes even under or over the other toes.
Symptoms of bunions can include pain when walking, joint redness and pain, and shift of the big toe inward towards the other toes. The skin over the bunion may become irritated from pressure and friction from shoes. A blister or bursa may form.
Bunions can often be treated conservatively. This can include changes in shoes, orthotics, rest, ice, and medications. For more severe deformities, surgery may be necessary.