(HealthDay News) -- A bunion is a painful enlargement at the joint of the big toe, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.

The skin over the joint becomes swollen and can be very tender. Bunions can be inherited as a family trait, can develop on their own, or can be caused by poorly fitting shoes.

A key part of treatment is wearing shoes that conform to the shape of the foot and don't cause pressure points.

In severe cases, bunions can be disabling. Several types of surgery are available that can relieve the pain and improve the foot's appearance.