There are a number of different things that can contribute to the development of bunions. One of the most common is wearing ill-fitting shoes. Shoes that are too tight or have high heels can put undue pressure on the toes, causing them to become misshapen over time. This is often seen in women who wear high heels on a regular basis. Other causes include arthritis and trauma to the foot. Bunions are more common in people who have family members with the condition, indicating that there may be a genetic predisposition for developing bunions. Treatment for bunions typically involves wearing properly fitting shoes and using pads or other support devices to help reduce pain and inflammation. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the deformity.