A bunion is a structural change in the foot, characterized by a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe. This common foot condition, medically known as hallux valgus, involves a misalignment of the bones within the front part of the foot at the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint. Bunions typically develop gradually.
Key Visual Characteristics
The most noticeable visual sign of a bunion is a prominent bony bump that protrudes on the side of the foot at the base of the big toe. This bump indicates that the forefoot bones have shifted out of their normal alignment. The first metatarsal bone moves towards the inside of the foot, while the big toe angles towards the smaller toes.
This deviation of the big toe, often referred to as hallux valgus, can cause it to lean against or overlap the second toe, visibly altering the foot’s natural shape. The skin covering the bony protrusion may appear red, inflamed, or swollen, especially with friction from footwear. This irritation can make the area tender and warm.
Common Locations and Types
Bunions primarily develop on the inside edge of the foot at the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint, at the base of the big toe. This common form, known as hallux valgus, involves the big toe deviating laterally towards the other toes. The resulting bony prominence is a direct visual cue of this alignment issue.
A bunionette, or tailor’s bunion, occurs on the opposite side of the foot, at the base of the pinky toe. This condition presents as a small, bony protrusion on the outside edge of the ball of the foot. The pinky toe might also shift angles, turning inward towards the fourth toe. Historically, tailor’s bunions were associated with tailors who sat cross-legged, putting pressure on the outside of their feet.
Associated Visible Signs
Beyond the primary bony bump and toe deviation, bunions can lead to other visible changes. Friction and pressure from footwear can cause thickened skin over the bunion or between the toes. These may manifest as calluses, which are broad areas of hardened skin, or corns, smaller, concentrated areas of thickened skin.
The altered alignment of the big toe can also visibly affect the adjacent toes. The pressure from the deviating big toe may force the second toe to bend abnormally, often curling upward or downward at its middle joint. This condition is known as a hammertoe deformity, and it creates a noticeable visual change in the shape of the lesser toes. In some cases, the second toe might even visibly cross over or under the big toe due to the crowding caused by the bunion.