Bunions and Hammertoes
Bunions & Hammertoes: Structural Foot Deformity Care
Structural deformities like bunions and hammertoes are among the most common causes of foot discomfort, altered gait, and long-term joint stress. At Dr. Michele Selsor’s podiatry practice in Pinellas Park, FL, we specialize in both conservative and surgical management to restore alignment, relieve pain, and preserve function.
What Are Bunions & Hammertoes?
Structural deformities like bunions and hammertoes are among the most common causes of foot discomfort, altered gait, and long-term joint stress. At Dr. Michele Selsor’s podiatry practice in Pinellas Park, FL, we specialize in both conservative and surgical management to restore alignment, relieve pain, and preserve function.
Bunion (Hallux Valgus)
A deformity in which the big toe deviates inward, causing a bony prominence on the toe’s base. Over time, this misalignment can shift adjacent toes, create pressure points, and deform joint mechanics.
Hammertoe
A bending or curling of the toe (often the second, third or fourth toe) into a hammerlike shape, due to muscle imbalance, joint instability, or footwear stress.
These deformities can be painful, limit footwear choices, cause calluses or bursitis, and exacerbate other lower limb conditions.
Contributing Factors
- Genetic predisposition or inherited foot structure
- Biomechanical overpronation or instability
- Poorly fitting shoes (narrow toe boxes, high heels)
- Repetitive stress or long hours standing
- Muscle imbalances, weak intrinsic foot muscles
Treatment Options & Protocol
Comprehensive evaluation
1
- Gait and alignment analysis
- Radiographic imaging (Xrays) to assess joint angles, severity, and degenerative change
- Assessment of soft tissue, joint mobility, and associated foot issues
Conservative (nonoperative) management
2
- Padding, toe spacers, splints
- Custom or off-the-shelf orthotic inserts to offload pressure
- Shoe modifications: wide toe box, flexible, supportive footwear
- Physical therapy, stretching and strengthening exercises
- Anti-inflammatory medications or topical creams
Minimally invasive & surgical intervention
3
- For progressive or symptomatic cases, surgical correction may be warranted
- Procedures include bunionectomy, osteotomy to realign bone, soft tissue release, or combined corrective surgery
- Hammertoe surgery may involve tendon release, joint resection, or fusion
- Surgery is tailored to the specific foot structure and goals
Postoperative care & rehabilitation
4
- Immobilization in a post-op boot or splint
- Gradual weight bearing under controlled protocols
- Physical therapy to restore toe mobility and strength
- Long-term use of orthotics and protective measures to prevent recurrence
Geographic & Practice Relevance
- Dr. Selsor’s Pinellas Park, FL practice treats patients across Pinellas County and the greater Tampa Bay area, many of whom experience aggravated symptoms due to warm-weather footwear and active lifestyles
- The humid climate can contribute to skin irritation around bunion prominences, so early intervention and padding are especially important in Florida
- Patients in Florida often continue walking and recreation year-round — our care plans account for local activity levels
Geographic & Practice Relevance
- Dr. Selsor’s Pinellas Park, FL practice treats patients across Pinellas County and the greater Tampa Bay area, many of whom experience aggravated symptoms due to warm-weather footwear and active lifestyles
- The humid climate can contribute to skin irritation around bunion prominences, so early intervention and padding are especially important in Florida
- Patients in Florida often continue walking and recreation year-round — our care plans account for local activity levels
If you notice a progressive bump forming, toe misalignment, persistent pain, or difficulty wearing footwear, it’s time for an assessment. Let us help you restore proper foot biomechanics and live painfree.