Bunions are one of the more common deformities of the foot. In this condition the big toe (hallux) rotates and deviates towards the second toe. The prominence that occurs is the result of the first metatarsal head shifting toward the midline of the body as the foot widens. It may or may not cause symptoms depending on the severity of the condition and the style of shoes that are worn. There are many causes of the condition including inheritance, arthritis, and flat (pronated) feet. Narrow or pointed shoes may accelerate or aggravate the deformity but are generally not considered the cause of the bunion deformities.

The treatment of the bunions may be as simple as a change of the shoe gear. However, often the condition requires surgical correction. In most cases, surgical realignment of the first metatarsal and the soft tissue release is necessary to achieve a lasting correction.