What Causes Bunions?

A bunion — a bony bump that can form at the base of the big toe — forms when the big toe pushes against the toe beside it, forcing the big toe to grow bigger and poke out. The skin over bunions often becomes sore and red.

Sometimes bunions are caused or made worse by too narrow shoes. They may also be the result of stress on the foot, some other medical condition such as arthritis, or an inherited structural defect.

Smaller bunions (bunionettes) can develop on the joint of the little toe.

When Should a Podiatrist be Consulted?

Bunions often do not require medical treatment, but a person should see a doctor who specializes in treating foot disorders (podiatrist or orthopedic foot specialist) if there is:

• A visible bump on the big toe joint
• Persistent big toe or foot pain
• Decreased movement of the foot or big toe
• Difficulty finding shoes that fit properly because of a bunion

Can Untreated Bunions Cause More Serious Foot Problems?

Even though they don’t always cause problems, bunions are permanent unless surgically corrected. If left untreated, possible complications may include:

• Hammertoe — An abnormal bend occurring in the middle joint of a toe, usually one next to the big toe, that causes pressure and intense pain.
• Bursitis — A painful condition that occurs when the small fluid-filled pads (bursae) that cushion bones, tendons, and muscles near joints become inflamed.
• Metatarsalgia — A condition that causes inflammation and pain in the ball of the foot.

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

A podiatrist can identify a bunion by examining the foot and watching the big toe as it moves up and down. This enables the doctor to see if a patient’s range of motion is limited. After the physical exam, the doctor uses X-rays of the foot to help identify the cause of the bunion and the extent of its severity.

How Are Bunions Treated?

Surgery isn’t recommended unless a bunion causes you frequent pain or interferes with your daily activities. Dr. Ari Rubinstein — Lower Westchester Foot & Ankle’s resident podiatrist — can suggest a number of non-surgical options to help you get rid of bunions.

Bunions are common, but we have a unique approach. Click or call to book nowt at Lower Westchester Foot & Ankle today!

Hammer Toes Q & A

Hammer toe is the general title given to toes that are bent or turned. It is a common deformity that can be developmental or acquired. Progression of the toe and joint position often results in painful toes, nail problems, and infections of the digit. 1 or more toes may be affected. Dr. Ari Rubinstein, DPM of Lower Westchester Foot & Ankle, offers hammer toe treatment and correction services and procedures.

Why is my toe bending?

There are many causes for toes to bend. Common causes are tightening of the musculature, nervous or vascular changes of the lower extremity, history of stroke or trauma, developmental and congenital conditions. Each of these should be properly evaluated.

What problems can a hammer toe cause?

Nail damage, corns and callouses, sores and ulcerations, infections and abscesses. As the toe(s) bend more, there is increased chance of loss of range of motion and pain in shoes and when walking. People suffer from Diabetes, vascular disease, neurological disease, and other immunological conditions are at increased risk.

How are hammer toes treated?

Stretching, strapping, taping, and padding can help prevent progression of the deformity. Better fitting shoes with larger toe boxes may help accommodate the increase height and width of the toe joints. Often surgical intervention offers the best and quickest results.

How do I get my hammer toes fixed?

Book online with Dr. Ari Rubinstein. X-rays will be taken, and the deformity will be evaluated. All treatment options will be thoroughly discussed.