I'm not sure what you're referring to.

In the second photo, are you asking about the lumpy growths on the tree trunk? If so, those probably are burls--and burls are highly prized by woodworkers if the tree dies. As far as I know, burls are natural and harmless and do not shorten the life of the tree.

In the first photo, are you referring to the lumpiness/bumpiness of the trunk, or to the sunken areas in between the raised up areas? My answer would vary, depending on what it is that is alarming you.

It's the lumps that alarm me. Bottom pic is of smooth side of trunk. You can see a couple bumps coming around. Top pic shows a ton of bumps. I am just hoping it isn't something wrong with the tree.

The only disease of redbud bark that I can think of is a fungus called botryosphaeria canker. It is caused by Botryosphaeria dothideia, I think. My understanding of this form of canker is that you get receding spots in the bark, like it is developing shallow depressions or rotting away. I don't think it causes bumps like you're seeing to arise within the tree trunk/bark itself. You might call your local Ag Extension office to see if anyone has any ideas about what is causing those bumps. I don't know if that's a massive number of burls occurring or if it is something else. I kept looking at those bumps/lumps/protrusions or whatever they are and trying to figure out why they're occurring but am clueless on that issue. Sorry.

Thanks, Dawn!

Al