A bunion is a foot condition characterized by the presence of a unusual lump that develops on the joint of the big toe. People who frequently wear tight or high-heeled shoes have an increased risk of developing bunion symptoms, warns MayoClinic.com. Depending upon the severity of bunion symptoms, both nonsurgical and surgical treatments can be used to help alleviate these symptoms.
Bent Big Toe
Patients who have a bunion may notice that their big toe abnormally bends inward towards the smaller toes, reports PDRHealth, a medical information website associated with the "Physicians' Desktop Reference." Depending upon the severity of the bunion, certain patients may have a big toe that overlaps the smaller second or third toes. Affected patients can develop a large, protruding bump along the edge of the big toe that may be tender to the touch. These bunion symptoms can make it difficult for affected patients to wear shoes or walk about normally.
Red, Thick Skin
A red, thick patch of skin, called a callus, can form along the outside edge of the base of the big toe as a bunion symptom, explains MayoClinic.com. This symptom arises when the edge of the big toe abnormally rubs against tight, ill-fitting shoes. The toe skin callus may appear swollen or enlarged and can be tender to the touch. In certain patients, fluid can begin to accumulate underneath the callused skin, warns PDRHealth, which can exacerbate foot discomfort. A doctor may treat the callus by shaving off the dry, thick skin to help alleviate painful bunion symptoms.
Foot Pain
Foot pain is a common symptom in patients who develop bunions. Painful sensations can be localized to the joint underneath the big toe but may also spread throughout the foot. These uncomfortable foot pain symptoms can make it difficult for affected patients to walk or wear shoes. If foot pain symptoms become severe, a doctor may recommend surgery to help relieve bunion symptoms.
