What are Bunions and Hammertoes?
A bunion is a bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of your big toe. It occurs when some of the bones in the front part of your foot move out of place. This causes the tip of your big toe to get pulled toward the smaller toes and forces the joint at the base of your big toe to stick out.
A hammertoe is a deformity that causes a toe to bend or curl downward instead of pointing forward. This deformity can affect any toe on your foot but it most often affects the second or third toe.
Symptoms of Bunions and Hammertoes
The symptoms of bunions and hammertoes include:
- Pain and soreness.
- Inflammation and redness.
- A burning sensation.
- Possible numbness.
- Changes in the shape of your foot.
Diagnosing Bunions and Hammertoes
Diagnosis of bunions and hammertoes typically involves a physical examination by a healthcare professional. They may also ask about your symptoms and medical history. In some cases, an X-ray may be used to determine the degree of the deformity.
Possible Treatments for Bunions and Hammertoes
There are several treatment options for bunions and hammertoes:
- Changes in Footwear: Choose shoes with plenty of room for your toes and avoid high heels.
- Padding and Taping: Your doctor can help you tape and pad your foot in a normal position. This can reduce stress on the bunion and relieve your pain.
- Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, may help to relieve pain.
- Injection Therapy: Corticosteroid injections can help reduce pain and inflammation.
- Surgery: If conservative treatments don’t help, surgical procedures are available to treat bunions and hammertoes.
Next Steps
If you’re experiencing symptoms of bunions or hammertoes, it’s important to seek professional help. At Sharma Foot & Ankle Specialist, we’re dedicated to providing personalized care for your foot and ankle needs.
Don’t let foot discomfort hold you back. Reach out and make an appointment with us today. Your feet will thank you!