URBANA, IL (Chambana Today) — Most people spend a lifetime on their feet, but few give much thought to footwear until something goes wrong. Marc Leonard, DPM, a podiatrist at OSF HealthCare, says two of the most common issues he sees — bunions and hammer toe — are largely preventable with the right shoes and treatable without surgery when caught early.
Bunions
A bunion forms when bones shift out of place, creating a bump on the toe joint and drawing the toe inward. Most commonly seen on the big toe, bunions can also develop on the pinky toe. Dr. Leonard says they are often caused by joint hypermobility and can be genetic.
For mild cases, wider shoes or a splint may provide enough relief. When discomfort becomes severe, surgery is an option.
“We make a cut in that bone, bring it back into alignment and put some screws in,” Dr. Leonard said. “Then we protect the area during the post-operative course.”
The procedure is outpatient, and patients can typically walk out of the office. Full rest is recommended for about a month, with exercise resuming six to eight weeks after surgery.
Hammer Toe
Hammer toe occurs when a toe — usually not the big toe — contracts upward, resembling a hammer. The resulting knuckle prominence can rub painfully against footwear.
As with bunions, wider shoes and splints offer short-term relief. In more severe cases, outpatient surgery involves removing a small portion of bone and stabilizing the toe with a wire for four weeks before removal.
“The toe should be more stable, straighter and hopefully not rub and cause the same pain it did prior to surgery,” Dr. Leonard said.
The Right Shoes Make All the Difference
Both conditions share a common preventive measure: proper footwear. Dr. Leonard advises against flip flops, lightweight canvas shoes, and high heels worn regularly. Instead, he recommends a sturdy walking shoe with good arch support.
“Cheapest is not best,” he said.
Over-the-counter orthotics can also help, though a podiatrist may recommend a custom insert for those with persistent issues.
Learn more about foot care on the OSF HealthCare website.
