Though often thought of as simply a bump beside the big toe, a bunion (hallux valgus) actually represents a significant structural change in the foot's framework. This condition occurs when the big toe shifts toward the second toe instead of maintaining its straight alignment, causing the bones to become misaligned and creating the characteristic bump. Bunions typically develop due to inherited foot mechanics rather than being directly inherited themselves. Certain foot structures predispose individuals to developing bunions, making the condition more likely to appear in those with specific inherited foot types.