Facts about Bunions and Hammertoes
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At Texas Foot Specialists two of the most common conditions that we treat are bunions and hammertoes. While many people recognize what these deformities look like, there are aspects of these conditions that are not as well known. Below are some facts about hammertoes and bunions and how they are treated.
FACT: Deformities such as bunions and hammertoes most often form as the result of a biomechanical problem such as a muscle imbalance.
FACT: These conditions can be made worse by wearing shoes that fit poorly. Shoes that are too short or have narrow toe boxes can exacerbate a deformity.
FACT: Many patients with hammertoes and bunions develop secondary problems like corns and calluses due to the pressure footwear exerts on the deformity.
FACT: Toe deformities are progressive conditions. This means that left untreated bunions, hammertoes, and other deformities will only get worse, not better.
FACT: There are ways to treat bunions and hammertoes and the sooner they are detected and treatment begins the greater chance of slowing their progression. If you suspect you have a bunion or hammertoe forming, contact our Sugar Land (281-242-4448), Pasadena (281-991-0600) or Houston (713-664-6677) office. Our podiatrists, Dr. Bruce Miller and Dr. Gregory Mangum will examine your feet and toes to see if a deformity is developing.
FACT: In most cases, the podiatrist will take an x-ray to use as a baseline to monitor the progression of the deformity.
FACT: Initial treatment for bunions and hammertoes generally consists of conservative measures such as choosing shoes made of soft, flexible materials that have wide toe boxes, cortisone shots to relieve inflammation, and custom orthotics to help compensate for biomechanical defects. Padding may also be recommended to reduce pain from the pressure of shoes on the deformity.
FACT: When deformities progress to the point where the patient is still experiencing severe pain despite the non-invasive treatment options prescribed, the podiatrist may recommend surgery to correct your bunion or hammertoe.
If you have more questions about hammertoes, bunions, or other toe deformities, don’t hesitate to contact us.