Bunions & Hammer Toe

A bunion (hallux valgus) is a bony bump on the joint at the base of your big toe that can form when your big toe pushes unevenly against other toes.

When this happens, the joint of your big toe can eventually get bigger and stick out uncomfortably from the side of the foot. The skin over the bunion can appear red in color and be sore and uncomfortable.

Hammer toe deformity is characterized by the toe bending upward at the middle joint with the end of the toe becoming angled downward causing the toe to no longer lay flat.

Causes

Bunions & Hammer Toe can be heredity or develop from injury or when stress falls unevenly on joints and tendons in the feet. They can also be caused by certain types of arthritis, incorrect footwear or diabetes. 

Prevention

Prevention includes wearing well-fitting shoes that do not cramp your toes, especially in occupations that require a lot of time standing or lifting. Always wear shoes with a wide toe box, giving toes ample space to move and avoid shoes that cramp or irritate your toes.

Using orthotic devices that help align the foot and can provide a cushioned layer for the affected toe, can provide significant relief.

Treatment

Treatment includes pads and cushions to protect the sensitive area and/or separate toes that rub. Wider shoes to reduce pressure and friction.

Arch supports to help bring the bones into a more normal alignment, thereby alleviating pressure on the toe joint.

Lower heel heights help ease foot strain that can increase the formation of bunions. In severe cases, splints can be used to help relieve pain while sleeping. Many of the products below can help reduce pain, provide relief on toe tips, prevent corns, calluses, blisters and may help you walk better.