Two of the most common problems of the foot treated here at Lake Tahoe Surgery Center include, but are not limited to, bunions and hammer-toes. These very common problems are caused by a number of variables including; poorly fitting shoes, genetics, and sports injuries.
Lake Tahoe Surgery Center is fortunate enough to have an excellent staff of podiatrists on our medical team who have a vast amount of experience in treating foot problems, as well as an array of other conditions which can affect the foot and/or ankle. Many of these problems can be treated in the doctor’s office without requiring surgery. However, many foot problems do require surgery before their condition can be improved.
Bunions
A bunion is a bony bump, usually at the base of the big toe. When the angle between the bones of the first and second toes is larger than normal, the big toe moves towards the second toe and usually goes over or under it. In some cases the adjacent toes begin to buckle or become a "hammer-toe".
Bunions are often caused by incorrect foot mechanics. The foot may flatten too much forcing the toe joint to move in an abnormal fashion. Some people are simply born with an extra bone near a toe joining. One thing to consider if you are at risk for developing bunions is to avoid wearing high healed shoes or shoes that do not fit properly.
Bunions can be treated. With minor surgery your feet can look and feel better.
Hammer-Toes
A "hammer-toe" is the buckling of any of the toe joints. Joints at the end or middle of the toe as well as the joint near the ball of the foot may be affected. Toe joints usually curl because of a muscle imbalance, or tight tendons. Hammer-toes vary in severity and in the number of joints involved.
If your hammer-toe is not causing a great deal of pain, then merely changing the type of shoes may ease the discomfort. If your symptoms are severe, surgery may be needed. The type of procedure may be determined by determining whether the toe joints are flexible or rigid. Rigid hammer toes can be corrected by removing a piece of bone to help straighten the toe. These procedures are usually done on an outpatient basis, under general anesthesia. A pin may be used to hold the remaining bone in position during healing.
If you are a sufferer of any kind of foot problems, please contact us, and we will put you in touch with one of our podiatrists who can diagnose and treat your problem and have you back on your feet as soon as possible.