Bunions 

The medical term is Hallux Abducto Valgus, or commonly called “bunions”. There are many different causes and many varying degrees of deformity. Some of the common factors of many bunions include collapsing of the arch, angulation of the first metatarsal bone away from the middle of the foot, angulation of the big toe towards the middle of the foot, an increased bone growth on the side of the big toe joint, decreased motion and dislocation of the big toe joint, and pain in the area when walking, standing, in shoes or with activities.

Not all bunions are the same and not all bunions are treated the same way. Treatment depends on the amount of deformity, angles of the bones, arthritic spurs, dislocation of the joint and many other factors. Because of the diversity of bunions, management differs based on what is best for each particular foot. Surgical procedures differ greatly from surgeries 20-30 years ago. The practice of medicine improves each year as studies are performed to see what can be improved. Modern techniques emphasize on realigning the big toe joint, reducing the deformity, and restoring proper motion. Bunion surgery is also improved with new types of fixation to hold the bone in its’ new corrected position. Many people relate of someone who had bunion surgery 20 years ago and it was painful and the deformity returned a few years later. Modern surgical methods are less painful and usually have a better recovery.
 

Conservative treatment may be an option for someone who is unable to have surgery, or is not in a position to undergo surgery just yet due to work, responsibilities, family etc. Conservative management consists of oral anti-inflammatories, a change to proper shoes, custom orthotics, and sometimes cortisone injections. 
 

Hammertoes 

The term “hammertoe” is a general term that describes a toe that shifts towards a bent, curved, claw-like, or flexed position, rather than the normal straight position. It is caused by muscle imbalances of the toe muscles and tendons and result in the abnormal positions. People usually complain of the top of the toe rubbing against the shoe or an abnormal appearance of the toe without shoes.

There are different causes of hammertoes and treatments are focused on the cause of each deformity. Treatments may include conservative care of padding, straps, and comfortable shoes to alleviate pain. Surgery is an option that addresses the underlying cause of the hammertoe, including possible correction of the tendon or bone, depending on the severity of the deformity.