A bunion is a painful bony bump that develops on the inside of the foot at the big toe joint. Bunions are often referred to as hallux valgus. Bunions develop slowly. Pressure on the big toe joint causes the big toe to lean toward the second toe.
Bunions are often caused by tight or narrow footwear that puts pressure on the toes. Bunions can also be inherited, as the tendency to develop bunions can be passed down through families. Other factors that may contribute to the development of bunions include age, obesity, and certain medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and gout.