Definition: Inflammation and thickening of the bursa of the joint of the great toe, usually associated with marked enlargement of the joint and lateral displacement of the toe. Essentially the big toe is turned toward or is pushed toward the other toes. This results in inflammation of the joint with accompanying redness, swelling and pain.
It can be caused by wearing ill fitting and too tight shoes or degenerative bone or joint diseases such as arthritis. It may run in families.
Treatment is aimed at reducing pain, by wearing wider well fitting shoes and padding the affected joint. Surgery is used in severe cases.
Pronunciation: bun'yun
Also Known As: Hallux valgus
Common Misspellings: bunon
Examples: Lois developed a bunion on her left foot from wearing her sisters shoes which were a size too small.