Seeing your feet exposed in sandals this summer may raise questions about what could be ailing your feet. Here are some common conditions to watch for and guidance on when to consult our office for proper treatment:

Bunion If you have a bump on the side of your big toe, it could be a bunion. Bunions are often genetic; however, improper shoes, such as high heels or shoes with a tight toe box, can cause bunions to become painful or to progress. Treatment may only require monitoring your feet and making modest modifications to your footwear, or depending on the bunion’s severity, surgery may be the best option.

Hammertoe is a bending deformity of one or both joints of your toes. This abnormal bending can put pressure on the toe when wearing shoes. Hammertoes should receive prompt attention because of their progressive nature. They do not improve without some kind of intervention.

Melanoma (the deadliest type of skin cancer) is the type of skin cancer most frequently found on the feet. If you notice an abnormal freckle or mole anywhere on your foot, even under your toenail, it is best to have us evaluate it. Early detection is key.

If you notice a painful bony enlargement on the back of your heel, it could be a Haglund’s deformity. The soft tissue near the Achilles tendon becomes irritated when the bony enlargement rubs against shoes. This often leads to painful bursitis, which is an inflammation of the fluid-filled sac between the tendon and the bone—the bursa. We can treat a Haglund’s deformity nonsurgically, but when conservative methods fail, surgery may be needed to relieve pain.

While most people have heard of the most common type of bunion, which is near the big toe, another type of bunion is the tailor’s bunion or bunionette, which occurs near the little toe. If you notice a painful bump at the base of your little toe, it could be a tailor’s bunion. We can provide you with conservative methods of treatment as well as surgical options to help alleviate the pain.

Get Your Feet Ready for Sandal Season