bunion bunion a bunion, also known as hallux valgus, is a deformity of the joint connecting the big toe to the foot. the big toe often bends towards the other toes and the joint becomes red and painful. the onset of bunions is typically gradual. complications may include bursitis or arthritis. bunionother nameshallux abducto valgus, hallux valgusspecialtyorthopedics, podiatrysymptomsprominent, red, and painful joint at the base of the big toecomplicationsbursitis, arthritisusual onsetgradualcausesunclearrisk factorswearing overly tight shoes, high-heeled shoes, family history, rheumatoid arthritisdiagnostic methodbased on symptoms, x-raysdifferential diagnosisosteoarthritis, freiberg's disease, hallux rigidus, morton's neuromatreatmentproper shoes, orthotics, nsaids, surgeryfrequency~23% of adults