Your feet take you everywhere, and when they’re in pain, daily activities like walking and standing can be difficult. If you’ve ever dealt with bunions or hammertoes, they can be both embarrassing and painful. Fortunately, there are ways to prevent these conditions, so check out this info from Foot & Ankle Specialists in Cincinnati, OH, to keep your feet feeling and looking great. 

Your Guide to Preventing Foot Problems

What Are Bunions & Why Do They Occur?

A bunion is a bump that forms at the base of the big toe, and it occurs when the bone or tissue in that area becomes dislocated due to pressure on the joint. They can grow quite large and make it uncomfortable to wear shoes. While they are often hereditary, they are also commonly caused by the way you walk or wearing certain types of shoes, especially high heels. Women are more likely to deal with this condition than men, and it is often aggravated by age-related issues like arthritis. 

What Are Hammertoes & What Causes Them?

Hammertoes are a foot condition resulting from an imbalance in the muscles and ligaments surrounding toe joints, causing a permanent, unnatural bending of the toes. The most common issue they create is uncomfortable rubbing against the inside of the shoe and irritation on the tops of toes. They can be dangerous for people more susceptible to infection, such as those with diabetes or circulation problems. The two types of hammertoes are flexible and rigid; rigid hammertoes require surgery, but flexible ones can often be treated. The most common causes of hammertoes are injury, genetics, foot issues like high or flat arches, and aging. 

How Can You Prevent Both? 

You can prevent the development of bunions and hammertoes by only wearing footwear that fits well and provides proper support, and avoid wearing high-heeled shoes as much as possible. It’s also important to wear shoes that allow your toes to spread, since shoes that crowd your toes increase the pressure on the ligaments and joints. Maintaining a healthy weight will also help reduce the stress on the toe joint. 

If you’re suffering from a bunion, hammertoes, or any other foot issue, you need a podiatrist who cares. At Foot & Ankle Specialists in Cincinnati, OH, they offer treatment for a wide variety of conditions including sprains, bone spurs, arch pain, hammertoes, heel pain, plantar fasciitis, warts, and ingrown toenails. For more information on how they can help you, visit their website or call (513) 769-4408 to schedule your appointment today.