Common Toe Problems That Can Make Feet Look Abnormal

Many of the problems that affect toes are caused by abnormal foot anatomy. Over time, these abnormalities may lead to permanent changes in a toe’s appearance, such as a hammertoe or a bunion.

This article will look at the signs, symptoms, and causes of four common toe conditions.

These changes in bone positioning are most often due to abnormal foot function. For example, people with flat feet are more at risk of bunions. This can cause a widening of the foot and a large (and often red) bump on the side of the big toe joint.

Problems associated with a bunion include:

Pain at the bump area Difficulty fitting into shoes due to the widened foot Painful calluses on the soles of the feet

A tailor’s bunion affects the joint area of the fifth metatarsal bone, where it meets the pinkie toe.

It usually causes the following:

PainShoe discomfortCallus formation on the sole of the footCurling under the fourth toe

The name comes from the notion that tailors often sat in a cross-legged position, putting pressure on the outside of the foot.

Hammertoes are the result of abnormal pulling of foot muscles, which occurs when there is abnormal foot functioning. Wearing high heels and shoes that are too narrow in the toe box may also contribute to forming hammertoes. People with flat feet are also prone to hammertoes.

Problems that often occur with a hammertoe include:

Painful corns on the top of the toe Calluses on the ball of the foot (under the hammertoe) Arthritis of the toe joints

Abnormal foot anatomy, or a previous history of trauma such as turf toe or a toe fracture, can cause hallux limitus. This can progress to arthritis and a complete loss of range of motion, known as hallux rigidus.

Symptoms include:

Pain at the big toe jointA bunion (bump) at the top of the big toe jointA callus on the side of the big toe

Summary

Common toe problems, including bunions, tailor’s bunion (or bunionette), hammertoes, and hallux limitus, can be caused by abnormal foot anatomy and function as well as too-small footwear.

If left untreated, toe problems can impact how you balance, walk, and run. By understanding the signs and symptoms, you can get treatment and ensure a healthy, functioning foot.