There are conservative and preventive steps that can minimize the discomfort of a bunion, but surgery is sometimes recommended to correct the deformity. Hammer toes are a condition in which any of the toes are bent in a claw-like position. Although the condition usually stems from muscular imbalance, poorly fitting shoes that cramp the toes often aggravate the deformity. Avoiding pressure on the toes can reduce some pain. Surgery can be recommended to permanently realign the toes to their proper position.
Heel spurs are growth of bone on the bottom of the heel bone.
Pain results when inflammation develops at the point where the spur forms. The pain is often at its worst upon awakening in the morning or after sitting down for an extended period and then resuming activity. The pain is associated with plantar fascitis, an inflammation of the long band of connective tissue running from the heel to the ball of the foot. Treatment regiment may encompass exercises, anti-inflammatory medication or cortisone injections. Finally, neuromas are enlarge benign growths of nerves, most commonly between the third and fourth toes.