Bunions and hammertoes are both foot deformities that occur for a variety of reasons. Once they develop and progress, they cause physical changes to the foot and can even cause discomfort. However, recognizing the causes and symptoms can help prevent them or keep an existing case from getting worse.
Bunions are bumps that develop on the foot, primarily outside of the big toe area. They are very common as approximately 1 in 3 Americans have them (Cleveland Clinic, 2020). They happen as years of walking, standing, and pressure can misalign the toe bones and cause a bony bump aka a bunion to form. Though these factors lead to bunions, they also can be genetic. As the bunion progresses it can lead to discomfort while standing or walking, difficulty wearing regular shoes, calluses or corns, limited movement, and more (Mayo Clinic, 2021). Bunions can also cause hammertoes.
Hammertoes are when 1 or more joints in the toe point upward and can no longer lie flat. Muscles, tendons, and ligaments that once operated the toe normally have changed or weakened. This condition can be genetic, but other possible causes include poor footwear, diseases such as diabetes, and trauma (Cleveland Clinic, 2021). Hammertoes don’t just lead to a difference in the way the foot looks. They also can cause discomfort walking or standing, swelling, lead to corns or calluses, and more.
While both of these conditions are uncomfortable and can happen for reasons beyond our control, there are ways to minimize symptoms and assist with preventing them. Wearing supportive footwear and avoiding narrow and/or heeled shoes is recommended for prevention. Once bunions or hammertoes are present, some treatment recommendations include custom shoe inserts/orthotic devices, taping the foot for proper balance and alignment, icing, taking medication, and padding the area. If the condition is serious, a provider may recommend surgery.
If you believe you might be struggling with bunions or hammertoes and would like to learn more, give us a call today. Our providers at Podiatry of Greater Cleveland are here to address your concerns and figure out the best plan of action to get you feeling comfortable again.