Bunions and other toe deformities

Conservative Management by a Registered Chiropodist in Ontario

Bunions and toe deformities can cause ongoing pain, pressure, corns, and difficulty finding comfortable footwear. As a registered Chiropodist in Ontario, I provide comprehensive, non-surgical treatment focused on reducing discomfort, improving foot function, and preventing complications.

While advanced deformities may require referral for surgical correction by an orthopedic specialist, many patients experience significant relief with conservative care.

Bunions (Hallux Valgus)

A bunion is a progressive misalignment of the big toe joint that can lead to inflammation, joint stiffness, and pressure-related skin problems.

My Approach to Bunion Care:

Thorough Assessment

• Evaluation of joint alignment and mobility

• Biomechanical and gait analysis

• Footwear evaluation

• Identification of contributing structural or mechanical factors
  
  

Pain & Pressure Reduction

• Protective padding and offloading techniques

• Silicone bunion shields or toe spacers

• Strategies to reduce joint irritation and inflammation

Custom Foot Orthotics

• Prescription orthotics to improve foot mechanics

• Redistribution of pressure away from the bunion joint

• Support to help slow progression of deformity

Footwear Guidance

• Education on proper shoe fit and structure

• Recommendations for supportive, wide toe-box footwear

• Advice on modifying every day and athletic shoes

Skin & Nail Care

• Treatment of calluses, corns, and pressure lesions

• Prevention of skin breakdown, especially in high-risk patients

If conservative management is no longer effective, I will discuss referral options for surgical consultation.

Hammer Toes, Claw Toes & Other Toe Deformities

Toe deformities occur when muscle imbalance or joint changes cause toes to bend or contract abnormally. These conditions can lead to corns, calluses, nail changes, and forefoot pain.

Conservative Management May Include:

Early Intervention

• Stretching and strengthening exercises

• Toe props or splints to reduce irritation

Pressure Offloading

• Custom or prefabricated orthotics

• Crest pads and protective padding

• Footwear modification strategies
  
  

Corn & Callus Treatment

• Safe and sterile debridement of painful hard skin

• Preventative care to reduce recurrence

Ongoing Monitoring

• Regular assessments to prevent complications

• Specialized care for patients with diabetes or circulatory concerns

Scope of Practice in Ontario

As a Chiropodist in Ontario, our role is to provide conservative, soft-tissue and biomechanical management of bunions and toe deformities. Bone corrective surgery (such as bunion or hammer toe reconstruction) is performed by orthopedic or surgical specialists, and referral will be arranged when appropriate.

Individualized Care

Every treatment plan is tailored to your condition, lifestyle, and goals — with a focus on keeping you comfortable, active, and mobile.