Is There a Connection Between Bunions and Hammertoes?

Both bunions and hammertoes are common foot deformities, but they vary in specifics. While a bunion is a hard bony bump at the outside base of your big toe, a hammertoe happens when the middle joint of a toe awkwardly bends upward. 

Having either one of these issues can lead to bothersome effects, such as foot pain and swelling as well as walking difficulties. Having both conditions makes such symptoms more likely. But are these foot conditions connected? Potentially, yes.

At Babak Kosari, DPM, in Northridge and Santa Clarita, California, board-certified foot and ankle surgeon Babak Kosari, DPM, FACFAS, provides both conservative and surgical care for bunions and hammertoes. Here’s a closer look at the possible connection between these two common problems, along with strategies for finding lasting relief.

When bunions lead to hammertoes

Bunions don’t always cause hammertoes, but having the toe-side deformity does increase your risk of developing the uncomfortable toe bend, too. In some cases, the pressure and alignment problems from a bunion lead to a hammertoe — or worsen a pre-existing one. 

The more your second toe bends or cramps from your bunion, the more likely hammertoe formation becomes. This can result from the bunion gradually worsening, or from the challenges of fitting into shoes comfortably because of the bump.

Shared risk factors

Bunions and hammertoes share several risk factors, so you could develop both conditions independently. In other words, you could develop a hammertoe before a bunion or vice versa, or you could experience both at the same time — without one causing the other.

Factors that raise your risk for bunions and hammertoes include:

• Wearing snug or high-heeled shoes
• Having a family history of bunions and hammertoes
• Having a chronic joint condition, such as arthritis

Carrying excess weight may contribute to bunions and hammertoes, too. 

What to do about bunions and hammertoes

Dr. Kosari customizes a treatment plan for your bunion and/or hammertoe based on a comprehensive exam. In many cases, conservative treatments suffice. 

Your minimally invasive options may include bunion taping or pads, supportive shoes, custom orthotics, physical therapy, and oral or injected medications. Applying a cold pack to your bunion or hammertoe for 15-20 minutes at a time may help, too. 

Severe bunions and hammertoes may require surgery. Bunion surgery removes the bump and realigns the affected bone. Hammertoe surgery realigns the bent toe by cutting overly tight tissues, like ligaments and tendons, and removing part of the bone.

If you’re bothered by bunion or hammertoe symptoms, don’t wait for your discomfort to worsen. Call your nearest Babak Kosari, DPM, office in Northridge or Santa Clarita, California, today, or use our easy online scheduler to book an appointment at your convenience.