Bunion Home A-Z Health Information Health Library A-Z Bunion Overview A bunion, commonly known as hallux valgus or hallux abducto valgus, is typically described as a swelling or lump on the outer side of the big toe. Bunion formation is a progressive condition. Causes Bunions are most often caused by an inherited defect in the mechanical structure of the foot. Notably, while the bunion itself is not inherited, certain foot types render people more susceptible to developing a bunion. Bunion formation may indirectly result from wearing tight shoes that crowd the toes, which can occasionally exacerbate an inherited foot abnormality. Symptoms Soreness or painRedness and swellingA burning feelingNumbness Diagnosis A physical examination is usually adequate to confirm the diagnosis of a bunion since the deformity is apparent at the base of the big toe or on the side of the foot.Radiography (X-ray) can be performed to evaluate changes and ascertain the severity of the deformity. Treatment Non-surgical treatmentIn some cases, only observation of the bunion along with periodic evaluation and radiography is sufficient. However, in others, treatment might be essential. Early diagnosis and treatment may reduce the pain from worsening, but it cannot reverse the foot deformity. The steps that can be taken to avoid the worsening of a bunion include:Changing the type of shoesAdditional padding of the shoesChanges in daily activitiesPain-relieving medications, such as oral NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), to alleviate joint painApplying ice to the affected regionInjection therapiesUse of orthopaedic supportsSurgical treatmentIf non-surgical treatments fail to provide pain relief, your doctor may recommend a bunion surgery. Bunion surgery usually involves correcting the bunion abnormality through surgical procedures like the removal of excess bone and joint fusion.