Foot disorders not only cause pain but also prevent your foot from functioning properly by affecting the joints of the toes. Any age group can acquire these deformities, from young adults to the elderly. A significant reason behind toe deformities is tendon imbalance, arthritis, fractured toes, and ill-fitting footwear. Bunions and hammertoes are two of the most common foot conditions. In this post, we will explore the symptoms, causes, and possible treatments for hammertoe and bunion issues in the city of Houston.
Hammertoes
Hammertoes are deformities of the second, third, and fourth toes where the toe is bent at the middle joint, resembling a hammer. It can be rigid or flexible. Wearing tight fitting shoes can further lead to inflammation or bursitis, eventually resulting in the formation of corns and calluses on the affected area. It can be corrected with simple measures. If left untreated for a long time, the person may require hammertoe surgery in Houston.
Bunions
Bunions occur when there is a protuberance of tissue or bone around the toe joint. This enlargement either occurs outside the foot or at the base of the great toe. The latter occurs when the person wears tight, pointed shoes, and the big toe starts to move towards the smaller ones. It is pushed in an outward direction due to the pressure on the joint, resulting in the formation of a bunion. Bunion pain can be mild to moderate or severe. The skin and tissues around the affected area may also get inflamed or swollen.
The most common cause of a bunion is faulty mechanics within the foot. Since it is hereditary, there are more chances of deformity in families. People with flat feet or low arches have higher chances of getting affected.
Hammertoe and Bunion Treatment
- Pain relievers: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are often used in hammertoe and bunion treatment in Houston to reduce pain and swelling. These can be taken as pills or topical.
- Footwear changes: Switching to shoes with wide and deep toe boxes will take the pressure off your toes. A stretching device may also be used to widen shoes that you already own.
- Orthotic devices: These are shoe inserts that support the feet and keep the toes in the correct position. You may either use over-the-counter orthotics or custom-made orthotics.
- Bunion pads and taping: Bunion pads cushion the area around the bunion or hammertoe and relieve pressure. Medical tape can be used to hold your toes in the correct position.
- Corticosteroids: These are prescription medications that reduce inflammation.
- Icing: Cold packs can help bunion pain.
- Physical therapy: Working with a physical therapist can strengthen your foot. They will suggest toe exercises and stretches that will help your toes to stay in better alignment.
- Surgery: Bunion correction and hammertoe surgery in Houston is recommended only if the other treatments do not help or if walking is extremely painful. The surgeon will suggest which type of surgery you need and what to expect.
To Sum Up
If you notice any symptoms of bunions or hammertoes, you need to get treated before they turn into severe problems and require surgery. Look for foot specialists around you who use state-of-art technologies and bring years of experience to cure hammertoes and bunions.
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