Help for Bunions and Hammertoes

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At Goldsmith Podiatry, we often see an increased amount of Manhattan patients complaining about discomfort from bunions and hammertoes when we enter into the fall season. It’s not that cooler temperatures make these conditions worse but rather the switch to more traditional, closed-in shoe styles put pressure on the toe deformity that open summer styles did not. Also, hammertoes and bunions are progressive conditions. Throughout the summer, it’s possible a toe deformity has worsened, making it more noticeable and painful now.

Below are some tips for dealing with these painful and potentially disabling conditions.

  • Seek evaluation and treatment early. Often a toe deformity does not cause any discomfort in the initial stages. However, that’s the time to get it evaluated. Make an appointment at our Upper West Side NYC office by calling (212) 877-1002 so our podiatrists, Dr. Howard Goldsmith and Dr. Rosanna Troia can examine your toe. The foot doctor may order x-rays or other imaging studies to use as a baseline to monitor the toe even if there is no recommendation for treatment.

  • Modify your shoe choices. Your footwear can be an accomplice in exacerbating a toe deformity. Get rid of any shoes you own that have very narrow or short toe boxes. Limit or eliminate the use of high heels. These force the entire foot forward and can increase pain from a hammertoe or bunion and also speed the progression of the condition.

  • Take care of secondary conditions. It’s common for corns and calluses to form on the toes and feet in response to the irritation caused by friction between shoes and the deformity. These can become a serious problem on their own by becoming open and possibly infected. Use protective padding to cover sore spots.

  • Wear your orthotic. If the foot doctor has prescribed a custom orthotic to help with a bunion or hammertoe, it’s important you wear it consistently. In many instances, the root source of a toe deformity is a biomechanical dysfunction that a specialized orthotic can correct. Be sure to have your orthotic with you to try on with any new shoes you are considering purchasing.

If you believe a hammertoe or bunion has gotten worse, contact us today for a checkup.

Foot Care, Foot DeformitiesGoldsmith Podiatrybunions, hammertoes, podiatrist, proper footwear, orthotics