Changes in Foot Shape Must Be Taken Seriously

Every week at Advanced Feet and Ankle Care, Middlesex County podiatrist Dr. Jason Grossman sees men and women who have been living with misconceptions about their foot and ankle health. One such mistaken belief is that painful changes to foot shape such as bunions and hammertoes are an unavoidable part of growing older. Nothing could be further from the truth. Any change in foot shape should be taken seriously and reported to your podiatrist. How much do you know about the cause and treatments of these common foot deformities?

Bunions

Known medically as hallux vagus, a bunion occurs most often at the joint where the big toe meets the foot. The bones shift out of place, and a hard bump appears on the inside of the foot. This bump may also be red and swollen. It can make it challenging to wear shoes, stand, walk, or run comfortably. Smaller bunions, known as bunionettes or tailor’s bunions, may develop on the other toes.

Hammertoes

A hammertoe develops when the tendons or ligaments that connect the bones and the muscles of the toes shrink and contract, causing one toe to curl unnaturally, to straighten permanently, or to rise up and out of line with the others. Like a bunion, a hammertoe is likely to cause discomfort.

Foot Pain

Another misunderstanding about foot health is the idea that foot pain is to be expected and endured with age. It is also false. Your podiatrist is a medical expert with years of specialized training and experience, well-qualified to diagnose the source of your pain and to provide effective treatment. Whether a bunion, a hammertoe, or something else is to blame, your food doctor can help with medication, custom orthotics for cushioning and support, and even foot and ankle surgery when necessary.

Don’t suffer from foot pain. Call our friendly staff at (732) 679-4330 or click here to schedule a convenient appointment with Jason Grossman, DPM, in our modern, comfortable offices in Old Bridge and Sayreville today.