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A bunion is an enlargement of the inner portion of the joint at the base of the big toe. This enlargement represents additional bone formation that is often present in combination with a misalignment of the big toe. This misalignment then causes the big toe to move outward and the normal position of the big toe then becomes outward-directed toward the smaller toes. Having a bunion is not only an uncomfortable and painful experience but can also be embarrassing. Bunions can make it a difficult task to walk and even wear shoes. Patients will often report that the worst part about having a bunion is having others stare at them. It is important to consult a podiatrist at the first sign of bunion symptoms.

Frequent symptoms of bunions include foot pain and swelling of the soft tissues, redness, and local tenderness. The best solution to end a problematic bunion is to undergo foot surgery. This type of surgery is not performed by a primary care physician. You would need to consult a a podiatrist so that he can take a close look at it and evaluate your medical condition. Since there are many bones in the foot, it can be difficult to operate on them. Researching the procedure itself as well as the specialists in that are a is key to making sure that you find the best possible surgeon to get rid of your bunion.

Another common foot deformity is a hammertoe, which is a type of deformity that affects the second, third, or fourth toe causing it to permanently bend. This condition can be just as painful as a bunion. Initially, a hammertoe is flexible and can require of simple measures to be corrected. However, if left untreated, hammertoes can become fixed and require surgery. Hammertoe surgery is usually needed when the hammertoe has become more rigid. The surgery aims at relieving the pain and discomfort that this deformity gives to patients.

Visiting Cedars Sinai Foot and Ankle Center is a good first step towards correcting any painful foot disorders. A foot and ankle specialist will assist you and discuss the possible options that can work for your particular needs. Your specialist may make some recommendations as to changes that may help alleviate pain such as changing the type of shoe that you wear. Among all surgical options to correct these issues, the two most common are arthoplasty and arthrodesis. Arthoplasty removes a small section of the bone from the affected joint while arthrodesis involves fusing of all the small joints in the toe to straighten it.