Bunions are bony bumps that form on the base of your big toe joint. These bumps occur when the bones in the front part of your foot move out of place and the tip of your big toe pulls toward the smaller toes.

You can develop bunions if you frequently wear high heels or shoes that are too tight or too narrow. You may also be prone to bunions if you have a congenital foot deformity or if you have damage in your toe joints from osteoarthritis.

You should schedule a diagnostic evaluation at The Foot Clinic if you have symptoms of bunions such as:

• Toe or foot pain

• Noticeable bump on the base of your big toe

• Swelling or redness in the big toe joint

• Limited range of motion in your big toe

• Difficulties walking

Without treatment, bunions can lead to complications like bursitis, inflammation in the fluid-filled pads that cushion your joint bones; and hammertoe, an abnormal bend in the middle joint of your toe.

Dr. Jones examines your foot and toe joints to confirm you have a bunion. He may also order X-rays or other diagnostic tests to assess the severity of your condition.

In the early stages of a bunion, you may find relief by wearing comfortable shoes that are wide enough for your toes. You can also use padding or orthotic shoe inserts to cushion your foot and toes.

If you have a severe bunion, Dr. Jones may recommend surgery to eliminate inflamed tissue from around your big toe joint. He uses minimally invasive techniques to remove tissue and may also remove part of the bone if necessary to straighten your toe. Dr. Jones may also perform surgery that realigns your big toe.

Recovery after bunion surgery can take several weeks because the bones need to heal. Dr. Jones can also recommend orthotic devices that prevent new bunions from forming.