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What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is a bony prominence at the base of the big toe caused by joint misalignment. Over time, the big toe shifts inward, creating pressure, pain, and difficulty wearing shoes.

Bunions often worsen without treatment, especially if you’re active or on your feet all day.

Common Symptoms

• Pain at the base of the big toe

• Redness or swelling

• Difficulty fitting into shoes

• A visible bump on the inside of the foot

• Toe drifting toward the second toe

• Worsening pain after long periods of standing or walking

Why Bunions Form

Bunions develop due to a combination of:

• Genetics

• Flat feet

• Joint laxity

• Tight or narrow shoes

• Arthritis

• Repetitive stress on the forefoot

Even if shoes contribute, bunions are primarily a structural problem — not just a footwear issue.

When Bunions Become a Problem

You should be seen if you experience:

• Daily pain

• Difficulty walking

• Trouble wearing normal shoes

• Worsening deformity

• Numbness or burning

• Pain that interferes with work or exercise

If your bunion is causing instability or pain in the arch or ankle, it may be related to Ankle Instability.

Treatment Options

At Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Institute, we offer:

• Custom Orthotics to reduce pressure

• Padding and shoe modifications

• Anti‑inflammatory treatments

• Shockwave therapy

• Surgical correction for severe or progressive bunions

For advanced cases, learn more about surgical options on our Reconstructive Surgery page.

Do Bunions Require Surgery?

Not always. Many patients improve with conservative care. However, surgery may be recommended if:

• Pain persists despite treatment

• The deformity is worsening

• The big toe is crossing over the second toe

• You can’t wear normal shoes

• Your daily activities are limited

Dr. Sibel offers modern, low‑profile bunion correction techniques designed for stability and long‑term relief.

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Author

Roman Sibel, MD Dr. Roman Sibel, MD is an orthopedic surgeon practicing at Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Institute in Henderson, Nevada. Dr. Sibel specializes in a variety of cutting-edge foot and ankle treatments, including reconstructive surgery, sports medicine, trauma surgery, diabetic care, and laser treatments for removing nail fungus. Dr. Sibel retains active affiliations with numerous Las Vegas hospitals, including Southern Hills Hospital and Medical Center, and St. Rose Dominican Hospital’s multiple campuses throughout Nevada. He also works with several local surgical centers, such as Parkway Surgery Center, Sunset Ridge Surgery Center, and Coronado Surgery Center. Graduating from Pennsylvania State University in University Park, Pennsylvania, Dr. Sibel went on to earn his medical degree from MCP-Hahnemann School of Medicine in Philadelphia. He completed both his internship and residency in orthopedic surgery at Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio, and finished his foot and ankle fellowship training at the Hospital