Foot problems like bunions and hammertoes can affect your daily life, causing pain and discomfort while walking or wearing shoes. If left untreated, they can worsen and significantly impact mobility and quality of life. At Four Peaks Foot and Ankle, located in Scottsdale, AZ, the team is dedicated to helping you find relief. Here’s what you need to know about these conditions and how our expert care can make a difference.
Understanding Bunions and Hammertoes
What Are Bunions?
A bunion is a bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of the big toe. This condition, also known as hallux valgus, occurs when the big toe leans toward the other toes, pushing the joint outward. Over time, the misaligned joint swells and enlarges, leading to pain and limited mobility.
Common Causes of Bunions Include:
- Genetics: A family history of bunions increases your risk.
- Footwear: Tight or narrow shoes can exacerbate bunions.
- Arthritis: Joint inflammation can contribute to bunion formation.
What Are Hammertoes?
Hammertoes are deformities that cause one or more of the smaller toes to curl or bend unnaturally. The most commonly affected is the second toe, but other toes can also develop this condition. Hammertoes can make walking painful and cause corns or calluses where the bent toe rubs against shoes.
Common Causes of Hammertoes Include:
- Foot Structure: High arches or flat feet can create imbalanced pressure on toes.
- Improper Footwear: Shoes that are too tight or narrow can exacerbate deformities.
- Trauma: Injuries to the toe can alter its alignment.
Effective Treatment Options at Four Peaks Foot and Ankle
At Four Peaks Foot and Ankle, the team provides personalized care plans tailored to your unique needs. With expertise in both surgical and non-surgical treatments, you can expect comprehensive and effective solutions.
Conservative Treatments
For Bunions:
- Footwear Modifications: Switching to comfortable, wide-toed shoes can reduce pressure on the bunion.
- Orthotics: Custom-made insoles provide arch support and reduce joint stress.
- Padding: Protective padding cushions the bunion and prevents friction.
For Hammertoes:
- Splinting: Toe splints can help reposition and straighten bent toes.
- Foot Exercises: Strengthening and stretching exercises improve flexibility.
- Orthotics: Custom orthotics relieve pressure points and help align the foot.
Surgical Solutions
When conservative treatments aren’t effective, surgery may be necessary to restore proper foot function.
Bunion Surgery (Bunionectomy):
- Realigns the big toe joint by removing the bony bump and correcting deformities.
Hammertoe Surgery:
- Realigns tendons or bones to straighten the toe and relieve pressure.
Why Choose Four Peaks Foot and Ankle?
Expert Diagnosis and Treatment
Four Peaks Foot and Ankle utilizes advanced diagnostic tools to accurately assess your foot condition. The team includes experienced podiatrists who offer innovative treatment strategies for both bunions and hammertoes.
Personalized Patient Care
Every patient’s needs are unique, and at Four Peaks Foot and Ankle, your treatment plan will reflect this. Whether you require lifestyle adjustments, custom orthotics, or surgery, your care will be comprehensive and tailored to your situation.
Comfort and Convenience
Located in Scottsdale, AZ, Four Peaks Foot and Ankle provides a warm and welcoming environment where you can receive the care you need. With flexible scheduling and a patient-focused approach, you’ll feel at ease from your first appointment to your final follow-up.
Reach Out to Us Today
Are bunions or hammertoes keeping you from living life to the fullest? The compassionate team at Four Peaks Foot and Ankle is here to help you find relief. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and start your journey to healthier, pain-free feet!