There are many different types of foot deformities. Some may be present from birth, while others can occur over time or well into adulthood.
For some foot conditions, treatment may be required depending on the type and severity of the deformity. A slightly deformed foot may be able to be corrected with special bracing and orthotics, but more severe foot deformity may require surgery.
Common Types of Foot Deformities
If you have a concern about a misshapen foot, an orthopedic doctor can help you decide on the best course of action to repair the issue. Some of the most common types of deformities of the feet include the following:
Bunions (Hallux Valgus)
Bunions can be a very painful foot deformity. They more commonly occur in women and can result from wearing ill-fitting shoes, which put awkward pressure on the foot. This causes inflammation and irritation, and causes the bones in and near the big toe to change position.
In a bunion, a hard, bony lump forms on the side of the foot at the base of the big toe. The toe begins to lean inward and to point toward the other toes. Pain develops along the side or bottom of the feet (which is often worse when walking and wearing shoes).
Treatments can vary, depending on the severity of the condition. Your orthopedist may recommend shoe inserts (orthotics) or surgery for severe cases.
Hammertoe, Claw Toe, and Mallet Toe
Hammertoe usually affects the second toe on the foot (next to the big toe) and causes the joint to remain bent in a “hammer” shape, with the middle joint pointing upward. Claw toe is similar, and it most frequently develops in older women. The toes bend downward in the shape of a claw.
Mallet toe can affect any toe on the foot, causing the joint closest to the toenail to bend downward. Claw toe may be related to underlying medical conditions, but hammertoe and mallet toe are most frequently caused by wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes.
Flatfoot (Pes Planus)
Typically, we are born with flat feet, and our bones and joints become flexible as we develop and grow. Flexible flatfoot is when the arches of the feet disappear when standing (so the feet appear flat) but reappear when sitting. The condition is often outgrown with no residual problems, and most children won’t experience any symptoms associated with flatfoot.
If you have flatfoot, it can become painful. If orthotics and arch supports do not help, your orthopedic doctor may recommend surgical options.
High Arches (Pes Cavus)
A high arch is defined as when the sole of the foot is distinctly raised or hollow in appearance when bearing weight. It can be a result of a hereditary condition or can be a symptom of an underlying neurological, orthopedic, or neuromuscular condition.
It is not as common as flatfoot, but it can be a painful condition due to the compression of the metatarsal bones – and it can lead to limited function. Treatments such as physical therapy may be all that is required, but if symptoms are severe, surgery may be required.
Treatment for Foot Deformities in Naples, Florida
If you have a foot deformity that is causing you pain or reduced function, call the experts at the Joint Replacement Institute. Foot pain is a serious matter, and it is important to seek the medical treatment you need before the problem worsens.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation, contact us today by calling us at (239) 261-2663 or fill out our appointment request form online now. We look forward to helping you get back in step!
