If your toes haven't been looking quite right lately, you may be suffering from a bunion, a hammertoe, or even both.
From the outside, bunions look like a big bump on the inside of the foot around the big toe joint. However, that bump is actually a bone protruding towards the inside of the foot. Other symptoms of a bunion are inflammation, swelling, and soreness on the side surface of the big toe.
A hammertoe can occur in any toe except the big one, but it does tend to be most common in the second largest toe. The affected toe will be contracted at the PIP joint (middle joint in the toe), causing an almost claw-like deformity. There may be some redness and swelling around the toe, and it is probably extremely painful.
There's even a chance that you could be suffering from both a bunion and a hammertoe because some hammertoes form due to pressure from an existing bunion. The only way to know for sure and to get proper treatment is to contact the experienced North Carolina podiatrists at Gaston Foot and Ankle Specialists in Gastonia.
Dr. Contento, discusses bunions.
Causes of Bunion and Hammertoe
Why are you experiencing pains from a bunion or hammertoe? The answer might be in your closet! Poorly fitting shoes are often the culprits behind these common foot conditions. Tight, narrow dress shoes with a constrictive toe area can cause the foot to begin to take the shape of the shoe.
Your bunion or hammertoe could also be the result of a more complicated issue, such as a muscle imbalance, arthritis, or an abnormality in foot function.
If you have a bunion or hammertoe, you might want to consider wearing less restrictive shoes for a while. Pay attention to how your feet respond; if they do not seem to get any better, contact our Gastonia office.
Hammertoe and Bunion Treatment in Gastonia
The constant pain from bunions and hammertoes can sometimes be too much, and that's where we come in. The podiatrists at Gaston Foot & Ankle Specialists treat patients just like you every day. We have years of experience with all kinds of foot and toe conditions. When you schedule an appointment with us, we will work hard to make sure you are comfortable and well taken care of.
Call Gaston Foot & Ankle Specialists at
704-861-0425 today to schedule an appointment for your bunion or hammertoe.
