Bunion Treatment & Surgery

What is a Bunion?

A bunion (from the Latin word "bunio," meaning enlargement) is a painful deformity of the joint at the base of the big toe, clinically known as the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint. It forms when the bone or tissue at the joint moves out of place, forcing the big toe to bend aggressively toward the others. This structural shift creates a firm, painful lump of bone on the inside edge of the foot. These enlargements can also occur on the outside of the foot near the little toe, which is known as a "bunionette" or "tailor's bunion."

Because the MTP joint carries a massive amount of your body’s weight while walking, bunions can cause extreme, daily pain if left untreated. The joint itself often becomes stiff, sore, and swollen, making even the wearing of normal shoes incredibly difficult. Patients frequently develop painful corns or skin irritations as the first and second toes begin to overlap.

How Do You Get a Bunion?

Bunions form when the normal balance of forces exerted on the joints and tendons of the foot is disrupted. Years of abnormal motion and pressure lead to instability in the joint, eventually causing the deformity. While many people believe bunions are purely inherited, it is actually the faulty foot type that is passed down. Parents who suffer from poor mechanics—such as flat feet or low arches—frequently pass those structural weaknesses to their children.

Other common causes include past foot injuries, neuromuscular disorders, arthritis, and occupations that place severe, prolonged stress on the feet (like ballet dancers). Furthermore, wearing shoes that are too tight or feature a narrow toe box is a primary trigger, explaining the high prevalence of bunions among women.

Comprehensive Bunion Care

Depending on the severity of your condition, Dr. Soltani can recommend a highly customized treatment plan. Early-stage bunions are often treated conservatively using custom orthotics to correct the underlying structural imbalance and relieve pressure. For patients experiencing severe, chronic pain and immobility, Dr. Soltani—an expert foot surgeon—specializes in advanced surgical procedures, including minimally invasive bunionectomy (bunion removal), to fully realign the joint and provide lasting bunion pain relief. These are often performed as outpatient procedures, allowing you to recover comfortably at home the same day. If you are considering surgical options, read our Minimally Invasive Bunion Surgery FAQ to learn more about the procedure and recovery times.

Frequently Asked Questions