Painful Bump on Your Toe? It Might Be a Bunion — Here’s What to Do

Have you ever noticed a bump forming on the side of your big toe that seems to get larger — and more painful — over time? You’re not alone. That painful, bony bump is called a bunion, and it’s one of the most common foot deformities treated by podiatrists today.

At Restore Foot & Ankle Specialists, we understand how bunions can affect your comfort, confidence, and mobility. Whether your bunion is mild or severe, knowing what causes it and how to treat it can help you stay active and pain-free.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion (medical term: hallux valgus) is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe joint when the toe gradually leans toward the second toe. Over time, this misalignment pushes the joint outward, causing the noticeable bump and pain.

Bunions develop slowly and worsen without proper care. As the deformity progresses, the surrounding tissues become inflamed and tender, leading to pain when walking or wearing shoes.

What Causes Bunions?

Bunions are not just caused by tight shoes — though footwear can certainly make them worse. They’re often the result of biomechanical imbalances and genetic factors that affect how your foot moves and bears weight.

Common Causes Include:

• Genetics: If your parents or grandparents had bunions, you may be predisposed.

• Improper footwear: Tight, narrow, or high-heeled shoes push the toes together and worsen the deformity.

• Flat feet or overpronation: These foot types put extra pressure on the big toe joint.

• Arthritis: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis can damage the joint and accelerate bunion formation.

• Repetitive stress: Activities that put constant pressure on the front of the foot (like ballet or running).

Women are more likely to develop bunions than men — partly because of footwear choices and hormonal effects on ligaments.

Common Symptoms of Bunions

Bunions can vary in severity, but even a small one can cause discomfort. Common symptoms include:

• A visible bump on the side of the big toe

• Swelling, redness, or tenderness around the joint

• Pain that worsens when walking or wearing shoes

• Restricted motion or stiffness in the big toe

• Corns or calluses where the toes rub together

• Difficulty finding comfortable shoes

Left untreated, bunions can lead to chronic pain, joint damage, and even toe deformities like hammertoes.

How Podiatrists Diagnose Bunions

Your podiatrist can typically diagnose a bunion during a physical exam. They may also:

• Order X-rays to evaluate joint alignment and the severity of the deformity

• Assess your gait and foot mechanics to identify contributing factors

• Discuss your pain level, activity, and footwear habits to guide treatment

Non-Surgical Treatment Options

Not every bunion requires surgery. In many cases, early intervention and conservative treatment can manage pain and slow progression.

1. Footwear Modifications

Choose shoes with:

• Wide toe boxes

• Soft uppers

• Low heels

• Supportive arches

Avoid narrow or pointed shoes that squeeze the toes.

2. Custom Orthotics

Custom orthotic inserts can correct foot mechanics, redistribute pressure, and reduce strain on the big toe joint.

3. Padding and Splints

Bunion pads or toe spacers cushion the joint and prevent friction inside shoes.

4. Anti-Inflammatory Medications

NSAIDs (like ibuprofen) or topical anti-inflammatories can ease pain and swelling.

5. Physical Therapy and Stretching

Specific exercises can strengthen foot muscles, improve flexibility, and reduce pain.

6. Ice Therapy

Applying ice packs several times a day can relieve soreness and inflammation.

These conservative measures can make a big difference, especially in early-stage bunions.

When Is Bunion Surgery Needed?

If conservative treatments don’t relieve your symptoms, or if the bunion is causing severe pain and deformity, surgical correction may be necessary.

Modern Bunion Surgery Options Include:

• Minimally Invasive Bunion Surgery (MIBS): Small incisions with less scarring, faster recovery, and minimal downtime.

• Osteotomy: Realignment of the bone to correct the joint angle.

• Arthrodesis: Joint fusion for severe deformities or arthritic cases.

• Exostectomy: Removal of the bony bump (usually combined with realignment).

At Restore Foot & Ankle Specialists, we use advanced techniques and 3D imaging to plan bunion correction with precision — minimizing pain and maximizing results.

Recovery After Bunion Surgery

Recovery time depends on the procedure type and severity of the bunion. Most patients can bear weight within a few weeks, with full healing in 6 to 12 weeks.

Your podiatrist will provide a personalized rehabilitation plan, which may include:

• Protective footwear or surgical boots

• Physical therapy

• Gradual return to activity

The goal is to restore mobility, correct alignment, and prevent recurrence.

Can Bunions Be Prevented?

While genetics can’t be changed, there’s a lot you can do to lower your risk:

• Wear comfortable, supportive shoes with plenty of room for your toes.

• Avoid prolonged use of high heels.

• Use custom orthotics if you have flat feet or overpronation.

• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce foot stress.

• Address early symptoms promptly to prevent worsening.

The Bottom Line

Bunions are more than just cosmetic — they’re a sign of joint misalignment that can cause lasting pain if ignored. The good news? With early treatment and modern surgical options, bunions can be effectively managed and corrected.

✅ At Restore Foot & Ankle Specialists, our podiatrists offer cutting-edge, minimally invasive bunion treatments tailored to your needs. Whether you need custom orthotics or surgical correction, we’ll help you walk comfortably again. Contact our office today with Dr. Gireesh Reddy or Dr. Sirisha Pokala by calling (469) 573-3427 or by booking an appointment online.