Bunions & Hammer Toe Specialist

What is a bunion?

A bunion, which is medically known as hallux valgus, is a bony protrusion that forms on the inside of the base of your big toe. But the problem doesn’t end there. This condition is progressive, and your big toe may migrate toward your second toe, often forcing itself over or under this toe, creating both aesthetic and functional issues.

While not medically dangerous, moderate-to-severe bunions can limit your life in several ways. For example, as the bony protrusion grows, it’s more likely to experience trauma, leaving it tender and swollen, making even your roomiest footwear a painful prospect. Another issue stems from the displacement of your big toe, which upsets the balance in your foot and can lead to problems with bursitis. Lastly, as your big toe begins to interfere with your other toes, you may experience problems with hammertoes and corns.

What are hammertoes and corns?

Hammertoes and corns can develop alongside bunions or independently. A hammertoe is caused by an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, and ligaments in your toes that cause it to bend upward at the middle joint. Hammertoes typically strike your second, third, and fourth toes and the condition can progress to the point where you’re unable to straighten your toe at all.

Hammertoes often go hand-in-hand with corns, thanks to the increased friction that your middle joint encounters because of its bent position. As the friction increases, thickened areas of skin form on the point of contact. While corns and calluses aren’t terribly dangerous and are often easily remedied, they can be problematic for some people, especially those with diabetes.

How are bunions, hammertoes, and corns evaluated and treated?

Dr. Bustamante’s office is equipped with advanced imaging, including X-ray and ultrasound, so he can quickly identify the degree to which your bunion or hammertoe may be a structural problem.

In the early stages of bunions and hammertoes, there are a few things you can do to slow their development, starting with your footwear. Far and away, the things that exacerbate these conditions the most are pointy shoes that crowd your toes, as well as heels that force your toes against the front of your shoes.

Dr. Bustamante may recommend custom orthotic devices to maintain proper foot alignment and provide maximal stability to your foot to further slow the progression of the condition.

If your bunions or hammertoes are moderate to severe, Dr. Bustamante offers surgical options that help straighten out your toes and remove the bony protrusions.

To get expert evaluation and treatment of your bunions, hammertoes, and corns, call Edward Bustamante, DPM, LLC, or book an appointment using the online scheduling tool.