A bunion is an enlargement of bone or tissue around the joint at the base of the big toe, referred to as the first metatarsophalangeal joint.The big toe, or the hallux, may turn in toward the second toe, which is referred to as abductus, and the tissues surrounding the joint may be swollen and tender. Bunions are mostly genetic and involve certain tendons, ligaments, and supportive structures of the first metatarsal that are positioned differently. If you are suffering from bunions, you are most likely familiar with the symptoms. Pain, redness and extreme sensitivity are to be expected as bunion growth progresses and the affected toe is pushed out of alignment. If allowed to progress, bunions can make it difficult to walk and eventually cause severe pain. Bunions may be passed down from parents to children, which suggests that the shape and action of the foot may cause the condition. When proper alignment is not used while standing, walking and participating in athletics, the integrity of the feet may be compromised and pressure can build throughout the foot.

Treatment for painful bunion deformity ranges from conservative modalities, such as, changes in shoe gear, over-the-counter and/or custom-made orthotics, rest, ice, and medications. Often times, conservative care does not alleviate the pain and the patient continues to suffer in shoes, in activities, and in simply walking. Surgery is often necessary to correct this deformity in order to reduce pain and return patient back to normal function.