The bony prominence at the big toe joint, is called a bunion, which can be caused by aging, inappropriate footwear, genetics and many other factors. If your big toe looks misshapen and protrudes from the side of your foot, you could have a bunion, a bony protrusion of the great toe joint that can cause friction and pain when wearing shoes. A bunion found on the outside of the foot on or below the fifth (or small) toe, is known as Tailors Bunion, which can also cause intense bunion pain. The main causes of a bunion are: 

• An active lifestyle
• Improperly fitting shoes (high heels and flat footwear)
• Foot type (flatter foot type) due to genetics
• A foot that pronates or rolls inward excessively when walking

Symptoms can include redness, swelling and pain which may be present along the inside margin of the foot. A hammer toe" may also develop at the 2nd toe, which is when the toe contracts and presses on the shoe causing trauma on top of the toe and even a corn. Corns and calluses may also develop on the soles of the feet, and between toes on the bunion joint (see our category 'Toe Protection' for corn / callus relief).

Bunions / bunionettes are most commonly treated and prevented with well fitting shoes with a wide toe box or from footcare products such as orthotics / insoles or any of the products listed below especially our 2foot2 Gel Toe Spreaders. For most people, relief can be achieved with better shoes / orthotics / insoles and pads, however in severe cases corrective surgery maybe required. Additionally the reduction of pressure over the enlarged joint using the below products in conjunction with protective paddings, regular use of a good foot cream, which helps to keep the skin soft and elastic, will help ease the discomfort caused by bunions.