Bunions, Explained: What’s That Bump on Your Toe?
If you’ve noticed a bony bump forming near the base of your big toe—or if your favorite shoes suddenly don’t fit like they used to—you might be dealing with a bunion.

You’re not the only one. Millions of people have bunions, and while they can definitely cause discomfort, there are plenty of ways to manage them without immediately resorting to surgery.

Let’s walk through the basics.

What Exactly Is a Bunion?

A bunion forms when the joint at the base of your big toe shifts out of alignment. Over time, this misalignment causes the joint to push outward, creating that noticeable bump along the side of your foot. It tends to develop slowly, beginning with mild soreness and becoming more bothersome if left untreated.

People often describe symptoms like:

  • A bump on the inside edge of the foot

  • Pain when wearing snug or narrow shoes

  • Redness or swelling near the joint

  • The big toe beginning to angle toward the second toe

Why Do Bunions Develop?

There isn’t one single cause of bunions, but several factors can make them more likely:

  • Frequently wearing tight, narrow, or high-heeled shoes

  • Genetics—bunions often run in families

  • Certain foot structures, like flat feet or unstable joints

  • Medical conditions such as arthritis

Are Bunions a Big Deal?

A bunion isn’t dangerous on its own, but it can cause increasing pain and even change how you walk if ignored. Over time, complications can include:

  • Calluses or corns

  • Hammertoes (we’ll cover that in more detail later this month)

  • Joint stiffness

  • Balance problems, particularly in older adults

So, while it’s not a cause for panic, it is something worth addressing sooner rather than later.

What Can You Do About It?

At Freeland Foot & Ankle Clinic, we specialize in non-surgical treatments that relieve bunion pain and help prevent the condition from progressing. Dr. Dailey works closely with each patient to develop a plan that fits their needs and lifestyle. Depending on your situation, we may recommend:

  • Custom orthotics to improve alignment

  • Toe spacers or splints to reduce pressure

  • Padding and personalized shoe recommendations

  • Stretching and strengthening exercises

  • In-office therapies like taping, ultrasound, or laser treatment

We’ll also help you understand which shoes are truly supportive—and which ones might be making things worse.

Final Thoughts

A bunion isn’t just a cosmetic issue; it’s a sign that your foot’s alignment may be off. Addressing it early gives you more options—and helps you avoid surgery down the road. At Freeland Foot & Ankle Clinic, our goal is to keep your feet healthy, comfortable, and moving.

Wondering if that bump on your toe is a bunion? Have questions about treatment options?
Contact us at (989) 695-6788—Dr. Dailey and our team are here to help you get back on your feet.

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