Bunions and Hammertoes
Bunions
A bunion is an enlarged bone on the side of the big toe. Depending on the severity of the bunion, the big toe may be angled mildly or sharply toward the other toes. Bunions often develop along with other foot problems, especially hammertoes.
Causes of bunions include heredity, foot injury, or congenital deformity. Bunions may also develop along with inflammatory joint disease such as arthritis. Maybe you have heard that wearing narrow-toed or high-heeled shoes causes bunions. Not always. Even in areas of the world where shoes are never worn, people get bunions.
In many cases, Dr. Somers uses laser-assisted surgery in the correction of bunions. Depending on the severity of the bunion deformity, the procedure may involve removing bone from the side of the big toe or making a cut (an osteotomy) in the bone to properly align the great toe. The use of the laser seals vessels, creating a bloodless field and reducing post-operative pain and swelling.
Hammertoes
Often a foot with a bunion will also have a hammertoe. Over time, the bunion slants the big toe toward and then under the second toe (the most often "hammered" toe), raising the second toe to a claw-like position. Hammertoe can also occur when a bunion is not present. Once the hammertoe has occurred it begins to rub against shoes and causes painful corns and calluses.
Hammertoe correction typically involves removing a portion of bone from the toe and straightening it to lie in its proper position. The CO2 laser is utilized to create a bloodless field that reduces post-operative swelling and pain.
Our website is intended as a reference to educate patients on symptoms of the foot; medical emergencies should be treated at a medical facility or hospital. If you feel that you are in need of an appointment, new patients are always welcome. If you would like to schedule an appointment, contact our office at 615-356-3249. Our staff will gladly assist you.