What Are Bunions?

A bunion is a common condition that involves an abnormal, bony bump at the base of the big toe, causing the joint to swell outward and become painful. The big toe may also turn inward toward the second toe because of the enlarged joint, which can then lead to difficulty walking, ingrown toenails, and corns and calluses. Bunions can form when there is an improper balance of forces exerted on the joints of the foot, causing instability in the joint of the big toe.