Understanding the condition
What is bunions?
A bunion is a progressive bone deformity that appears as a prominence on the inside of the big-toe joint. The first metatarsal shifts away from the second, while the big toe moves toward the second toe. The rate of progression varies by person.
01
Symptoms & signs
- Pain or redness over the bony prominence
- Pain at the big-toe joint or under the front of the foot
- Rubbing between the big toe and second toe
- Shoes or activities becoming limited by pain
02
Diagnosis
- Clinical examination
- Discussion of symptoms, activity limitations, health, and recovery considerations
03
Treatment options
- Non-surgical care focused on relieving symptoms
- Surgical correction when symptoms, progression, and candidacy support that decision
Common questions
Frequently asked questions
Do bunions get worse over time?+
The current Lone Star FAS guide describes bunions as progressive, although there is no single rate at which they worsen.
Does every bunion need surgery?+
No. Dr. Ivey’s published guidance recommends discussing surgery when pain limits the shoes you need to wear or the activities you want to do.