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In your foot, the bones, tendons, and ligaments located at the base of the great toe, called the medial first metatarsal phalangeal joint, work together to distribute your body weight. A bunion is an enlargement of the bone or tissue surrounding the medial first metatarsal phalangeal joint. It is a common foot deformity that can be inherited or can occur as a result of repeated stress to the joint.

When the bone becomes enlarged, it pushes the big toe inward, sometimes over the other toes, causing a protrusion on the outside of the foot. Bunions can also occur on the fifth metatarsal joint, or near the "pinky" toe. This is called a tailor's bunion.

Bunions can range in size and severity. Severe bunions may need to be surgically corrected. Most people however, find relief from wearing soft, pliable shoes, and arch supports, and from applying ice to the sore toe joint.


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