The main symptom associated with bunions is a firm swelling or bump at the base of the big toe on the side of the foot. Some people never develop symptoms beyond this bump, along with some toe misalignment.
However, others may experience pain or soreness along the bump, redness and swelling, burning sensations, numbness or reduced feeling.
People who suffer from bunions may also develop corns or calluses in between their first and second toes due to the misalignment. The foot misalignment caused by a bunion can also lead to pain in the foot arch, heel, ankle, knee, and hips.
Symptoms are most likely to occur due to pressure caused by footwear, making the pain and discomfort associated with bunions more common in women who wear high heels.
How to prevent bunion symptoms from getting worse
Using special inserts or orthotics, wearing proper footwear, and using toe separators designed for people with bunions can help prevent bunion symptoms from getting worse.