Chiropody Services
Foot Conditions - Bunions, hammertoes
Bunions, Hammertoes, flat feet, corns, calluses, plantar fasciitis are few examples of foot conditions that can be a major cause of discomfort.
Bunions
Referred as Hallux abductovalgus. The big toe has deviated towards the second toe. The 1st metatarsal head becomes more prominent. Soft tissue including tendons and ligaments tighten and contract on lateral side of first toe resulting in stretching and weakening of tendons and ligaments on medial side of first toe. Bunions can be very painful.
Hammertoe
Imbalance between intrinsic and extrinsic muscles will lead to dominant muscles overpowering and causing digital contractures
Sometimes hammertoes may result from abnormal alignment and deviation of the bone within the toes as well
For toe digits to function, they must be straight, stable, rectus, rigid beam during gait to allow normal propulsion
Digital deformities are collectively known as hammer toe syndrome
Toe deformities can appear as claw toes, mallet toe, retracted toe, or a hammer toe
Causes of Bunions and Hammertoes
Abnormal Biomechanics due to flatfeet or high arches
Osteoarthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory conditions such as spondyloarthropathies (reactive arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, etc)
Trauma or injury to the first toe
Congenital and Genetic Factor
Hereditary predisposition with conditions such as Ehler's danlos
Neuromuscular disorders
Improper fitting footwear - tight shoes or high heels
Management and Treatment of Bunions and Hammertoes
Footwear education and advise according to foot type
Bunion splints and braces - although these options do not reverse bunion and hammer toes, but they help reduce worsening
Toe separators or toe props to help align the toes and reduce pressure
Tendon Release - soft tissue surgery
Orthopedic Surgery Consultation
Seek immediate advise from Chiropodists at Podera Health if you suffer from this issue!