What causes bunions and hammertoes?

A bunion, also known as a “hallux valgus,” is a bony growth on the inside of your foot at the base of your big toe. Bunions usually develop over time when pressure causes your big toe to lean toward your second toe. Other causes of bunions include:

• A structural defect of the foot, like flat feet
• Medical conditions, such as arthritis
• Job or lifestyle that places stress on your feet
• Neuromuscular problems

Hammertoes develop because of an imbalance in the ligaments, tendons, or muscles responsible for holding your toes straight. This condition often occurs because of trauma to your toe, or from having a second toe that’s longer than your big toe.

You’re also more likely to wind up with bunions or hammertoes if they run in your family. Plus, because women tend to wear tight, narrow shoes, they tend to develop bunions and hammertoes more often than men.

How are bunions and hammertoes treated?

Because they’re bone deformities, bunions and hammertoes don’t go away on their own. Dr. Dunn strives to offer several conservative treatments to help resolve your discomfort first. Non-surgical treatments for bunions and hammertoes include:

• Shoes with a larger toe box
• Protective padding or shields
• Custom orthotics or insoles
• Physical therapy
• Stretching exercises

Surgery to correct bunions or hammertoes is generally a last resort if non-surgical solutions haven’t provided relief. Bunion and hammertoe correction procedures involve surgically straightening your toe joint, repairing or releasing damaged ligaments, or if needed, removing bone tissue. If you do need surgery for bunions and hammertoes, Dr. Dunn uses the most minimally invasive methods, so your recovery time is minimal.

Can I prevent bunions and hammertoes?

After Dr. Dunn treats your bunion or hammertoe — especially if you needed surgery — it’s important to take several measures to prevent further issues. For instance, it’s essential to wear properly fitting shoes with plenty of wiggle room in the toes.

By taking a three-dimensional image of your foot, Dr. Dunn can recommend an ideal shoe type for you and design supportive custom-fitting orthotics. Other ways to prevent bunions and hammertoes include:

• Taking breaks and getting off your feet at work
• Learning foot and toe stretches
• Taping your foot or wearing protective padding over joints

Dr. Dunn and her team can work with you to ensure your bunion and hammertoe treatment is effective while teaching you how to decrease issues from reoccurring.

Before living another day with bunion or hammertoe pain, sche