Bunions and hammertoes are common foot deformities that can cause pain, discomfort, and mobility issues. While these conditions affect different parts of the foot in different ways, they are closely related. They often share the same causes and risk factors, and people with bunions are more likely to develop hammertoes and vice versa.
At Northwest Extremity Specialists, our Portland-area podiatrists provide expert care for bunions and hammertoes, offering non-surgical and surgical treatment options to alleviate pain and prevent further complications.
What Is a Bunion?
A bunion is a deformity of the big toe joint where the big toe drifts inward toward the other toes, creating a bony bump on the side of the foot. Over time, this misalignment can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty walking.
In some cases, a similar condition known as a bunionette (or tailor’s bunion) can occur on the outside of the foot at the base of the pinky toe.
Common symptoms of bunions include:
- Pain or soreness in the big toe joint
- Swelling and inflammation around the bunion
- Limited movement in the affected toe
- Corns and calluses due to friction from tight shoes
- Numbness or burning sensations
For additional details on bunion symptoms and causes, visit the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS).
What Is a Hammertoe?
A hammertoe occurs when one or more toes become stuck in a bent position at one or both joints. It is most common in the second toe, but can affect any of the four smaller toes.
Symptoms of hammertoes include:
- A bent or curled toe that does not lay flat
- Pain when walking or wearing shoes
- Corns, calluses, and open sores due to friction
- Limited flexibility in the affected toe
Over time, hammertoes can become rigid and painful, making them harder to treat without surgery.
For more information on hammertoe causes and treatments, refer to the Cleveland Clinic.
What Causes Bunions and Hammertoes?
Several underlying causes and risk factors contribute to both conditions:
- Genetics and foot structure – Some people inherit foot structures that are more prone to bunions or hammertoes.
- Improper footwear – Tight, narrow, or high-heeled shoes force the toes into unnatural positions.
- Foot injuries – Stubbing, jamming, or trauma to the toe can lead to deformities.
- Inflammatory arthritis – Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis can contribute to joint deformities.
- Gender – Women are more likely to develop bunions and hammertoes due to shoe choices and foot structure differences.
Why Early Treatment Is Critical
Both bunions and hammertoes are progressive conditions, meaning they worsen over time. Once the toes start shifting out of place, surgery is the only way to correct them.
However, early intervention can slow progression and prevent surgery. Seeking treatment as soon as symptoms appear can help reduce pain and maintain mobility.
Treatment Options for Bunions and Hammertoes
1. Conservative (Non-Surgical) Treatments
If diagnosed early, bunions and hammertoes can often be managed with non-invasive treatments, such as:
- Orthotic inserts – Custom insoles provide arch support and realign foot pressure.
- Toe spacers and splints – Help reposition the toes and reduce friction.
- Padding and taping – Relieve pressure on bunions and hammertoes.
- Proper footwear – Wide-toed, supportive shoes can prevent worsening symptoms.
- Physical therapy and stretching – Helps strengthen foot muscles and improve flexibility.
For more information on orthotics and non-surgical bunion care, visit the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA).
2. Surgical Treatment
If bunions or hammertoes cause severe pain, difficulty walking, or do not respond to conservative treatments, surgery may be necessary.
- Bunion Surgery (Bunionectomy) – Involves realigning the toe joint and removing the bony bump.
- Hammertoe Surgery – Involves straightening the toe by releasing tendons or fusing the joint.
Bunion and hammertoe surgeries have excellent success rates, and most patients experience significant pain relief and improved mobility after recovery.
When to See a Podiatrist for Bunions or Hammertoes
Schedule an appointment if you experience:
- Persistent foot pain that affects daily activities
- Difficulty finding comfortable shoes due to foot deformities
- Increased toe stiffness, numbness, or swelling
- Recurrent corns, calluses, or open sores on your toes
Ignoring bunions or hammertoes can lead to chronic pain, arthritis, and difficulty walking.
Contact a Portland-Area Podiatrist for Bunion and Hammertoe Treatment
At Northwest Extremity Specialists, our board-certified podiatrists offer advanced, personalized treatment for bunions and hammertoes.
Contact your nearest Northwest Extremity Specialists office today to schedule an evaluation and explore your treatment options.
