Bunions and Hammertoes

If Walking or simply wearing shoes is extremely uncomfortable for you then you might have bunions or hammertoes. 

But what are Bunions and Hammertoes? 

So Let’s break them down:

1. Bunions: A bunion, also known as hallux valgus, refers to a common toe condition that is usually caused by wearing excessively tight shoes. The condition is characterized by a bony, inflamed bump that forms along the big toe. Sometimes, a bunion causes only minor discomfort. In other cases, it can be incredibly painful and require immediate attention by a podiatrist or orthopedic specialist. 

So what causes Bunions? 

Bunions are the result of the big toe repeatedly pushing against the neighboring toe, which causes bone instability in the front part of the foot. Over time, this causes the base of the toe joint to push outward and swell, forming the bony lump that typically characterizes a bunion. Bunions are common and are typically triggered by one of the following:

• Wearing excessively tight shoes, especially high heels
• Foot arthritis

2. Hammertoes: Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. The type of shoes you wear, foot structure, trauma and certain disease processes can contribute to the development of these deformities. 

Hammertoe is caused by: 

• Certain shoes. High-heeled shoes or footwear that’s too tight in the toe box can crowd your toes into a space in which they can’t lie flat. This curled toe position might eventually persist even when you’re barefoot.
• An injury in which you stub, jam or break a toe can make it more likely for that digit to develop hammertoe or mallet toe.
• Abnormal balance of the toe muscles. The imbalance leads to instability, which can cause the toe to contract.

What to expect?

During your appointment, your doctor will first examine your feet and toes for signs and symptoms of bunions, hammertoe, or other conditions. He or she may request an X-ray image of the affected foot to uncover any abnormalities in the bone structure. Your podiatric surgeon will determine which treatment options are best for you depending on your age, the severity of symptoms, conclusions drawn from an X-ray exam, and other factors.

If you have any of these issues then call us at 928-774-4825 or visit our website flagstafffootandankle.com and book your appointment right away!