Bunions occur when the joint found at the base of the big toe becomes enlarged, usually due to stress on the feet or abnormal joint motion. A similar condition affecting the little toe is called a bunionette or tailor’s bunion. Bunions may not exactly be hereditary, but they do tend to run in families who pass on foot types more likely to develop them. Some bunions are caused by injuries, neuromuscular disorders, arthritis, and congenital deformities. Common bunion symptoms include redness, pain, swelling, corns, firm bumps around the big toe or the outside edge of your foot, and restricted movement of the big toe.