5 Signs That Your Big Toe Pain Could Be Gout
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Why Do Bunions and Hammertoes Often Happen Together?
If you’ve noticed a bony bump on the side of your big toe and a bent second or third toe, you might be dealing with both a bunion and a hammertoe. These two common foot problems often show up at the same time, which isn’t a coincidence.
While they’re separate conditions, bunions and hammertoes are closely connected by shared causes and foot mechanics.
Pritesh Patel, DPM, is our board-certified podiatrist at Florida Foot and Ankle Associates in Boca Raton, Florida, and he understands both conditions, including why these foot issues can happen together.
Understanding bunions and hammertoes
A bunion develops when the joint at the base of your big toe becomes misaligned, causing your toe to point inward and a bony bump to form on the side of your foot. This can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty finding shoes that fit comfortably.
A hammertoe usually affects your second, third, or fourth toe. It happens when one of these smaller toes bends at the middle joint, making it resemble a hammer. This condition can also be painful, especially when walking or wearing shoes.
The connection between the two
Bunions and hammertoes often occur together because of how the foot compensates when one area is out of alignment. When a bunion forms and pushes your big toe inward, it can crowd your other toes, especially the second toe. The pressure and imbalance often lead the second toe to bend abnormally, resulting in a hammertoe.
In many cases, both bunions and hammertoes stem from similar root causes, including:
Foot structure
If you have flat feet or overly flexible joints, you’re more prone to both conditions.
Poor footwear
Tight, narrow, or high-heeled shoes can contribute to the development of both bunions and hammertoes.
Genetics
If your parents or grandparents had foot deformities, you may be more likely to develop them too.
Arthritis
Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis can weaken your joints and lead to deformities in your toes.
Treating one condition without addressing the other can sometimes lead to incomplete relief or ongoing foot problems.
Why early attention matters
If you’re experiencing pain, swelling, or visible changes in your toes, seek Dr. Patel’s care early. Left untreated, bunions and hammertoes can worsen and affect your ability to walk comfortably.
Early treatment options include changing your footwear, using custom orthotics, doing toe exercises, or, in more advanced cases, opting for surgery.
If you notice signs of either condition, we’re here to help you take steps to prevent further damage. Don’t wait to give your feet attention. Call our office at 561-202-1103 or book online by clicking here now.
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