Bunions

A bunion is a bony bump, usually near the joint at the base of the big toe. Although they may develop on the fifth (little) toe, bunions usually occur at the base of the big toe. Bunions are often caused by incorrect foot mechanics. The foot may flatten too much, forcing the toe joint to move beyond normal range. In some cases, joint damage caused by arthritis or an injury produced a bunion. And some people are born with the tendency to develop bunions. If you're at risk for developing a bunion, wearing high-heeled or poorly fitting shoes makes the problem worse.

Positional Bunions

Positional (mild) bunions arise from the growth of a new bone. As new bone grows, the joint enlarges. This stretches the joint's outer covering. Force created by the stretching pushes the big toe toward the smaller ones. Eventually, the inside tendons tighten, pulling the big toe farther out of alignment.

Structural Bunions

When the angle between the bones of the first and second toes is greater than normal, the big toe slants toward the smaller ones. In severe cases, this may also cause the second and third toes to buckle.