When your big toe is angled towards the second toe, the abnormality is called a bunion (hallux valgus). This causes a bump on the side at the base of the big toe. In addition, there is often thickening of the skin and tissues next to the affected joint. The thickened skin and tissues may become inflamed, swollen and painful. Complaints of bunions are reported to be more prevalent in people who wear closed shoes than in barefoot people. Besides ill-fitting shoes, unsupportive flimsy soled shoes can add stress to the bunion joint and increase pain and unsteadiness to the area.