Bunions
Podiatry & Foot & Ankle Surgery located in Live Oak, TX
Bunions and hammertoes are two of the most common foot-related problems. Without treatment, you might experience chronic foot pain or mobility issues. At Greater San Antonio Podiatry, experienced podiatrist Rolando Santellana, DPM, specializes in diagnosing and treating bunions and hammertoes. Using a conservative approach, he can reduce uncomfortable symptoms and help you feel better. To make an appointment, call the office in Live Oak, Texas, or book online today.
Bunions and hammertoes are common abnormalities that affect the feet and toes. They’re often mentioned together but have differences:
A bunion is a hard, bony knot that forms on the outer edge of the joint at the base of your big toe. Bunions occur when your toes crowd inward and the bones at the front of your foot move out of position. Over time, that movement causes the base of your big toe joint to bulge outward, resulting in a red, painful bump.
A hammertoe occurs when one of your middle toes stays bent in a curved or “hammerhead-like” position. Hammertoes form because of an imbalance in the ligaments and tendons that hold your toe straight.
Anyone can experience a bunion or a hammertoe, but several factors may increase your risk, including:
If you experience symptoms of a bunion or a hammertoe, it’s vital to contact Greater San Antonio Podiatry. The sooner you receive diagnosis and treatment, the less likely you are to experience complications that affect your quality of life or mobility.
At Greater San Antonio Podiatry, Dr. Santellana diagnoses bunions and hammertoes during an in-office exam.
First, he reviews your medical records and asks about your symptoms, including when they started, if they interfere with your routine, and if they respond to at-home treatments like ice or wearing different shoes.
Next, Dr. Santellana examines your feet and toes. Then, he orders X-rays to look at the alignment of your bones and joints. After assessing the severity of your hammertoe or bunion, Dr. Santellana develops a custom treatment plan to help you feel better.
Treatment of bunions and hammertoes depends on several factors, including your age, the severity of your symptoms, and your medical history. Dr. Santellana takes a conservative and nonsurgical approach to treatment whenever possible. He might recommend:
If conservative treatments don’t provide lasting relief, surgery might be necessary.
To learn more about the treatment options for bunions and hammertoes, make an appointment at Greater San Antonio Podiatry by calling the office or booking online today.