There are several effective treatment options available for those suffering from flat foot, bunions, and hammertoes. At Foot & Ankle Specialists in Bellevue and Omaha, Nebraska, we offer a comprehensive approach to diagnosing and treating these common foot deformities, ensuring each patient receives the most appropriate care based on their individual condition and lifestyle.

Treatment for Flat Foot

Also known as fallen arches, this condition occurs when the arches of the foot flatten out upon standing, causing the entire sole to touch the ground. This condition can lead to overpronation, which in turn may cause pain and complications in other parts of the body, such as the knees and lower back. Treatment options for flat foot may include:

• Proper Footwear: Wearing supportive shoes with a sturdy arch and heel counter can alleviate the discomfort associated with flat foot. Avoiding unsupportive footwear like flip-flops and high heels is crucial for managing this condition.
• Custom Orthotics: Custom orthotics can provide significant relief for individuals with flat foot. These specially designed shoe inserts offer support to the arches, redistribute pressure, and improve overall foot function.
• Physical Therapy: Physical therapy exercises focus on strengthening the muscles and tendons in the foot and lower legs. Our physical therapist may recommend exercises such as heel raises, toe curls, and stretching routines to enhance muscle balance and joint alignment.
• Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with flat foot.
• Surgery: In cases where conservative treatments have not provided relief, surgical options may be considered. Surgical procedures may involve realigning bones, repairing or transferring tendons, and fusing joints to improve arch support and foot function.

Treatment for Bunions

Bunions are bony bumps that form on the joint at the base of the big toe. They can be incredibly painful and often result from genetic predispositions. Treatment options for bunions may include:

• Proper Footwear: Wearing shoes with a wide toe box and avoiding shoes with pointed toes or high heels can prevent further irritation of the bunion.
• Padding and Taping: Applying padding and taping can help reduce the pain and pressure caused by bunions. This conservative treatment option can alleviate symptoms and allow individuals to continue their daily activities more comfortably.
• Custom Orthotics: Orthotics can alleviate the discomfort associated with bunions by redistributing pressure away from the affected area. This can prevent the bunion from worsening and provide relief from pain.
• Medications: NSAIDs can be used to manage the inflammation and pain caused by bunions. In rare cases, corticosteroid injections may be administered to provide temporary relief from severe pain and inflammation.
• Bunion Correction Surgery: When conservative treatments are not effective, surgery may be necessary. Our expert foot surgeons are highly skilled in performing bunion correction surgeries to restore foot function and relieve pain.

Treatments for Hammertoes

This condition involves an abnormal bend in the middle joint of the toe, typically the second, third, or fourth toe. Hammertoes often result from muscle imbalance, leading to discomfort and potential problems with walking. Treatment options may include:

• Proper Footwear: Wearing shoes with a wider and deeper toe box can prevent irritation and pressure on the hammertoes. Avoiding tight or narrow footwear is critical for managing this condition.
• Padding and Taping: Simple measures such as padding and taping can provide immediate relief from the discomfort caused by hammertoes. This method helps reposition the toe and reduces pressure on the prominent areas.
• Custom Orthotics: Custom orthotic inserts can help correct the toe's alignment and prevent the progression of hammertoes. These devices provide support and can be particularly effective when hammertoes are detected early.
• Physical Therapy: Targeted exercises and stretches can strengthen the muscles affected by hammertoes. Our physical therapist can develop personalized exercise programs to improve toe flexibility and function.
• Medications: NSAIDs are commonly used to manage the pain and inflammation associated with hammertoes. These medications can help control symptoms and improve comfort.
• Hammertoes Surgery: In cases where conservative treatments do not provide relief, surgery may be necessary. Surgical procedures can correct the toe's alignment, remove bony prominences, and restore normal foot function. Our expert foot surgeons specialize in toe reconstruction surgery, ensuring optimal outcomes for our patients.