Bunions Symptoms

Bunions are bony bumps that form at the base of your big toe, where they connect to your foot. They cause the big toe to angle inwards towards the other toes, often creating a visible deformity. The exact cause of bunions is unknown, but several factors can contribute to their development.

Genetics plays a role, as bunions tend to run in families. People with certain foot types, such as flat feet or a splayed forefoot, may be more prone to bunions. Mechanical stress from improper footwear can also worsen bunion between toes.

Shoes that are too tight, narrow in the toe box, or have high heels can crowd the toes and push the big toe out of alignment. Additionally, certain medical conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or inflammatory arthritis can contribute to bunion development by causing inflammation and joint deformity.

Bunions can cause a variety of symptoms, and the severity can vary depending on the individual. Here’s what you might experience:

Pain – This is the most common symptom. The pain can be sharp, throbbing, or a dull ache. It often worsens with activity, especially when wearing shoes that put pressure on the bunion.

Tenderness – The area around the bony bump may be tender to the touch, making it uncomfortable to wear shoes or socks.

Swelling – Inflammation around the joint can cause swelling, further increasing pressure and discomfort.

Redness – The skin over the bunion may appear red and irritated.

Stiffness – The big toe joint may become stiff, limiting your range of motion and making it difficult to bend or straighten your toe.

Difficulty wearing shoes – Bunions can make it painful or even impossible to wear certain shoes, especially those with narrow-toe boxes or high heels.

If you’re experiencing any of these bunion pain symptoms, we recommend seeing a podiatrist at Empire Foot and Ankle for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

• Joint irritation –The abnormal angulation of the big toe joint can irritate the surrounding tissues, leading to pain and inflammation.
• Bursitis –Bursae are fluid-filled sacs that cushion joints. When a bunion rubs against a bursa, it can become inflamed and painful.
• Nerve compression –In some cases, a bunion can compress nearby nerves, causing pain, numbness, or tingling.

By understanding the source of your bunion pain, our podiatrist at Empire Foot and Ankle can recommend the most appropriate treatment options to manage your discomfort and improve your overall foot health. Feel free to get in touch to learn more about bunions and how we can treat them to ensure optimal foot function.