From Bunions and Hammertoes to Flat Feet and More: Which Problems Should You Watch For?

According to Dan Michaels, DPM, “Prevention begets correction.”

Reconstructive Foot and Ankle Institute has always encouraged early intervention; after all, we understand that catering to biomechanics from an early age can help limit foot and ankle conditions later in life.

Problems range in severity and treatment methods must adapt to a patient’s unique structure, so with that in mind, we’ve put together this blog on common deformities, foot type problems, and what you can do to stay one step ahead of them.

For Bunions and Hammertoes, Foot Type Matters

“There are 24 different foot types, “ Dr. Michales explains.

  • “Based on your foot type, you can be prone to certain orthopedic conditions throughout your life. Understanding which foot type you are is vital for understanding and preventing certain foot and ankle conditions.”
  • Fortunately, many of these conditions are very common and can be easily treated in the office.  Most times, surgery is not needed, and there are many ways to prevent issues from getting worse. 

Controlling the supporting structures of the foot, for example, can help, while re-balancing the foot if needed can solve many foot deformity problems.

Flat Feet

There are two different types of flat feet: Flexible and rigid. 

  • “Flexible means you have a normal-looking arch when seated, but when you stand up, the foot arch collapses and the foot is flat. Rigid means the foot is flat at all times,” explains Dan Michaels, DPM.
  • To determine which type you have, you can try bearing weight on the foot to see how it responds. However, visiting a podiatrist for a professional examination is the best way to determine whether you have flat feet and, if so, which kind.

Hallux Varus

According to Dr. Michaels,

  • “Hallux varus is not usually a particularly painful problem, but shoe fit is an issue. Most people wear shoes most of the time (barring the rare trip to the beach) and this particular abnormality does not fit any footwear properly, safely, and comfortably.”
  • “There are other complications to hallux varus, most importantly the loss of efficient ambulation, referring to the complex sequence of events allowing for a healthy gait. This is a given when the big toe doesn’t line up correctly, straight ahead, in the direction of the body.
  • “When normal gait is altered or disturbed on a long-term basis, it’s a safe assumption that some other structure will become stressed, leading to dysfunction or pain,” says Dr. Michaels.

Reconstructive Foot & Ankle Institute offers comprehensive podiatric services! Call us at 301-797-8554 or contact us to schedule an appointment.

Located in Hagerstown & Frederick, MD, we’re ready to meet any of your foot health needs.

Don’t forget Dr. Michaels’s motto: “If it’s below the knee, think of me!”