A bunion is a medical condition of the big toe that is also termed hallux valgus. It is an abnormal bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of the big toe, according to the Mayo Clinic. It causes a protrusion on the outside of the toe. The big-toe joint becomes enlarged, and the big toe begins to crowd against the other four toes, the clinic says. Bunions occur in both men and women but are more common in women. Although genetics may be a factor, the University of Maryland Medical Center says that wearing high heels and tight shoes contributes to the problem.
Pain
A bunion can cause pain in the big toe that can be either dull or sharp. This occurs because the bunion causes the fat padding around the big toe joint to become inflamed and tender, according to the Mayo Clinic. Wearing heels or improperly fitting shoes can exacerbate the pain.
Arthritis
The Cleveland Clinic explains that the joint deformity can cause inflammation. At the same time, the resulting arthritis can cause the bunion to worsen, creating even more inflammation.
Skin Thickening
The skin under and around the big toe can become thickened. As the big toe increasingly causes pressure on the other toes, sores can develop. The University of California, San Francisco, notes that the other toes can become crowded, leading to additional thickening, calluses and corns.
Toe Deformity
A bunion gives the big toe a deformed appearance, because it is angled and pushes against the other toes. The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that all the toes can become affected by the bunion and develop a condition called hammer toes. The toenails may also become bent and brittle as blood flow is decreased because of pressure from the big toe.
