The common bunion is a localized area of enlargement of the inner portion of the joint at the base of the big toe. With the most common problem, called " hallux valgus" the big toe deviates towards the other toes. This disrupts the joint, and arthritic changes, sometimes develop in the joint. The enlargement actually represents additional bone formation, often in combination with a misalignment of the big toe. The normal position of the big toe (straight forward) becomes outward-directed toward the smaller toes. The enlarged joint at the base of the big toe (the first metatarsophalangeal joint) can become inflamed with redness, tenderness, and pain. A small fluid-filled sac (bursa) adjacent to the joint can also become inflamed (bursitis) leading to additional swelling, redness, and pain.