This is a common condition affecting the area from the big toe at the joint of its attachment to the rest of the foot, aka the first metatarsophalangeal joint. The joint becomes deformed and the toe gradually migrates towards the outside of the foot. The joint enlarges and becomes arthritic and painful. Treating bunions can be challenging through the use of physical therapy, bracing and sometimes injections and medications when painful. In severe cases, surgery is performed where the bunion portion of the bone is actually removed.