What Is a Bunion? Understanding the Signs, Causes, and When to Get Help

Learn how bunions develop, what symptoms to watch for, and when it’s time to see a podiatrist.

A bunion may look like just a bump on the side of your foot, but it’s actually a sign of a deeper joint misalignment that can lead to chronic discomfort and structural changes in your foot. Dr. Andrew Marso, a board-certified podiatrist serving the Big Bend and greater Milwaukee area, helps patients understand what’s really happening—and what to do about it.

Milwaukee Bunion Specialist

Podiatrist Offering Personalized Bunion Care & Surgical Expertise

Dr. Andrew Marso provides trusted bunion care for patients throughout the Milwaukee area—offering in-office solutions and advanced surgical procedures tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re just starting to notice changes in your toe alignment or struggling with long-term discomfort, Dr. Marso will help you understand your options and move forward with confidence.

Overview of Bunions

What is a bunion?

A bunion (medically known as hallux valgus) is a bony protrusion that forms at the base of your big toe, where it meets the first metatarsal bone. Over time, the joint shifts out of alignment, causing the toe to angle inward and the joint to push outward.

🎥 Watch the video below to hear Dr. Marso explain what a bunion is, how it forms, and why early treatment matters.

In just a few minutes, you’ll get expert insight from a trusted podiatrist who’s helped hundreds of patients understand and treat their bunions effectively.

Signs & Symptoms of Bunions

Not sure if what you’re seeing is a bunion? Look for these common symptoms:

• A visible bump or enlargement at the base of your big toe

• The big toe leaning or angling toward the second toe

• Redness, swelling, or soreness around the joint

• Hard skin or callus formation on the side or bottom of the foot

• Pain when walking, standing, or wearing snug shoes

• Stiffness or loss of motion in the toe joint

If you’re experiencing one or more of these symptoms, it’s time to consider a professional evaluation.

Causes & Risk Factors of Bunions

Bunions develop gradually over time, often due to a combination of genetics, lifestyle factors, and foot mechanics.

Common causes and risk factors include:

• • Family history of bunions due to inherited foot structure problems
  • Osteoarthritis This condition may cause changes to your foot structure, which can lead to a bunion.
  • A leg-length inequality (meaning there’s a difference in the length of your legs) and/or an uneven gait (when you walk).
  • Pregnancy. During pregnancy, your body produces a hormone that loosens joints. This can lead to increased laxity around your big toe joint and may cause or worsen a bunion.
  • Systemic lupus erythematosus (lupus), rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, or any other autoimmune disorders. These conditions can attack the joints in your body, including those in your toes and feet.
  • Overweight . Extra pressure on the joints of your foot may cause a bunion to form.
  • Previous injury that causes an altered walking pattern (for instance, favoring one leg) can increase stress on your feet, which may lead to the development of a bunion.

Even active patients and younger adults can develop bunions, especially if they have underlying biomechanical issues.

When to See a Podiatrist for Bunions

You don’t need to wait until the pain is severe to seek help. Bunions are progressive, meaning they typically worsen over time—and early care can make a big difference in your treatment options.

Schedule a consultation with Dr. Marso if you’re experiencing:

• Ongoing pain at the base of your big toe

• Trouble finding shoes that fit comfortably

• A visible change in toe alignment or joint shape

• Swelling, redness, or pressure that doesn’t go away

• A bump that’s getting larger or more painful over time

At Wisconsin Foot Center, we offer detailed evaluations and imaging to help you understand where your bunion stands—and what you can do to prevent it from worsening.

Why Patients Choose Us

• 👣 Focused on surgical and in-office bunion solutions
• 🕒 Same-week appointments available
• ⭐ 5-star rated care from a trusted Milwaukee podiatrist

Milwaukee Bunion Specialist

Podiatrist Offering Personalized Bunion Care & Surgical Expertise

Dr. Andrew Marso provides trusted bunion care for patients throughout the Milwaukee area—offering in-office solutions and advanced surgical procedures tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re just starting to notice changes in your toe alignment or struggling with long-term discomfort, Dr. Marso will help you understand your options and move forward with confidence.