What a bunion is
A bunion is a change in the alignment of the bones at the base of the big toe. As the big toe leans inwards, the joint sticks out at the side of the foot. A smaller bump on the outer side at the base of the little toe is called a bunionette or tailor’s bunion.
Early signs of a bunion
- A small bump at the side of the foot at the base of the big toe.
- The big toe starting to point towards the second toe.
- Redness or soreness after wearing shoes.
- Hard skin on the side of the big toe or under the ball of the foot.
- Shoes wearing out or feeling tight at the side.
Causes and risk factors
- Inherited foot shape: bunions often run in families.
- Flat feet and flexible joints.
- Inflammatory and other types of arthritis.
- Tight, narrow, pointed or high-heeled shoes, which can make them worse.
- Being female and older age.
See flat feet exercises.
Symptoms
- Pain and swelling over the bump.
- A red, inflamed bursa over the joint.
- Stiffness and pain in the big toe joint.
- Pain in the ball of the foot.
- Hammer toes or overlapping toes.
- Difficulty finding comfortable shoes.
See foot bursitis and big toe pain.
Diagnosis
A doctor, podiatrist or physiotherapist diagnoses a bunion by examining the foot. X-rays taken standing measure the angles of the bones and show arthritis, which helps plan surgery if needed.
Choosing shoes
- A wide, deep toe box.
- Soft, stretchy uppers without seams over the bump.
- Low heels, under about 4 cm.
- Laces or straps to adjust the fit.
- Shoes stretched over the bunion by a cobbler if needed.
Pads, spacers, splints and insoles
Bunion pads reduce rubbing. Toe spacers between the big and second toe and night splints may ease discomfort, but they do not permanently correct the bunion. Insoles can support flat feet and reduce pressure under the ball of the foot.
Exercises for bunions
- Big toe stretches: gently move the toe up, down and away from the other toes.
- Toe spreading: spread all toes apart and hold 5 seconds.
- Short foot exercise: lift the arch without curling the toes.
- Towel curls: pull a towel towards you with the toes.
- Marble pick-ups with the toes.
- Calf stretches.
Exercises help joint movement and foot strength but do not reverse the bunion.
Pain relief
- Ice wrapped in a cloth on the bump.
- Paracetamol or ibuprofen if appropriate.
- Reducing time in tight shoes.
- Losing excess weight, which reduces load on the feet.
When surgery is considered
Surgery realigns the bones and is considered when pain persists and affects walking or daily life despite non-surgical measures. It is not recommended for cosmetic reasons alone. Recovery often involves a special shoe for around 6 weeks and swelling for several months. Bunions can return.
Bunions in teenagers
Bunions can appear in adolescence, often with a family history and flexible feet. Comfortable footwear and exercises are the first approach; surgery is usually delayed until the foot has finished growing.
Staying active with bunions
Bunions should not stop you exercising. Choose activities that are comfortable, such as cycling, swimming or walking in wide, cushioned shoes. Running shoes with a wide toe box and a soft upper suit many people. Adjust lacing to avoid pressure on the bump, and use padding if needed.
When to see a doctor
- Ongoing pain despite changing shoes.
- Difficulty walking or finding any comfortable shoe.
- A red, hot, very painful toe joint, which may be gout or infection.
- Sores or ulcers over the bump, especially with diabetes.
- Numbness in the toes.
Key points to remember
- A bunion is a bony bump at the base of the big toe from a change in alignment.
- Early signs include a small bump and the big toe leaning inwards.
- Wide shoes, padding and exercises ease pain.
- Surgery is considered for persistent pain, not appearance.
Questions about bunions
These answers are general information and do not replace an examination or individual medical advice.
What does an early bunion look like?
A small bump at the base of the big toe, with the toe starting to lean inwards.
Can bunions go away?
No, but symptoms can be managed without surgery.
Do toe spacers fix bunions?
They may ease discomfort but do not permanently correct the deformity.
Are bunions genetic?
Foot shape is often inherited, so bunions run in families.
Do high heels cause bunions?
They can make bunions worse and more painful.
Do exercises help bunions?
They keep the joint mobile and the foot strong but do not reverse the bunion.
How long is recovery after bunion surgery?
Usually around 6 weeks in a special shoe and several months for swelling.
Can you prevent bunions from getting worse?
Wide, comfortable shoes and avoiding high heels may slow progression.
What is a bunionette?
A similar bump at the base of the little toe.
Sources
This guide is for general information and does not replace medical advice. How a problem is diagnosed and treated depends on your examination and medical history. If you think you have an emergency, contact your local emergency services.