Confused about hammer toes and bunions and wondering if surgery is your only solution? You’re not alone. These common foot conditions often leave people uncertain about their causes and the best ways to manage them. Dr. Po Raval, with nearly 35 years of experience as a podiatrist, explains what you need to know to take control of your foot health.
What Are Hammer Toes and Bunions?
At a glance, hammer toes and bunions are deformities that affect different parts of the foot:
- Bunions: A bunion is a deviation in the big toe joint, causing the toe to angle outward and the joint to become crooked.
- Hammer Toes: These affect the smaller toes (usually toes 2 through 5), causing them to buckle at the middle joint, creating a bent, hammer-like appearance.
While bunions always involve the big toe, hammer toes are limited to the smaller toes.
Why Do Hammer Toes and Bunions Develop?
The development of hammer toes and bunions is influenced by a combination of genetics and lifestyle factors.
- Genetics: If someone in your family has these conditions, you’re more likely to develop them as well.
- Walking Patterns: The way you walk and how your tendons function play a significant role. Over time, misalignments or imbalances can lead to these deformities.
- Age: While these conditions often develop gradually, they can start as early as your twenties.
Proactive Care: Surgery Isn’t the Only Option
The good news? Surgery is not the only solution for hammer toes and bunions. Modern podiatry emphasizes proactive, non-invasive treatments that can prevent or improve these conditions.
Custom Orthotics
Custom orthotics are designed to address the underlying cause of hammer toes and bunions by correcting the way your tendons function. These devices are placed in your shoes to:
- Realign the joints and prevent further deviation.
- Provide support to reduce strain on the tendons.
- Encourage the toes to straighten as you walk.
Toe Spacers and Stretches
Toe spacers can be used to gently realign the big toe in cases of bunions. Stretches and exercises help improve tendon flexibility and function, reducing the progression of both hammer toes and bunions.
When Is Surgery Necessary?
If the deformity becomes rigid and loses flexibility, surgery might be required. This is often the case when:
- Pain becomes severe and affects daily activities.
- Non-invasive treatments no longer provide relief.
Surgery focuses on correcting the joint and tendon to restore proper alignment.
The Key to Managing Hammer Toes and Bunions
The most important thing to understand about managing hammer toes and bunions is that proactive care makes a difference. By addressing these conditions early with orthotics, stretches, and preventative measures, you can often avoid the need for surgery.
If you’re noticing signs of bunions or hammer toes, consult a podiatrist to explore your options. Your feet are foundational to your overall well-being, and taking steps now can lead to better comfort and mobility in the future.
