Ruth Ann Cooper, D.P.M

If bunions, hammertoes, corns, calluses and other foot problems are making you hesitant to go barefoot on the beach or to wear sandals this summer, I can help your feet look and feel better as warm weather arrives.

Bunions are the most common deformity for which patients seek surgical treatment, both for improved mobility and comfort while wearing shoes and for better appearance when barefoot or wearing sandals. Depending on the extent of the deformity, bunions can often be repaired with a short postoperative recovery period.

Women who wear tight and pointed shoes are more likely to suffer from bunions because this type of footwear can aggravate the deformity. Seniors with arthritis in the big toe joint are also at higher risk of developing bunions.

Hammertoes can be flexible or rigid and can occur in any of the lesser toes. Ligaments and tendons that have tightened over time cause joints to buckle and, depending on the number of toes affected, recovery can take several weeks.

People with hammertoes often have corns due to the tops of the bent toes rubbing against the inside of the shoes. The corn, named for its resemblance to a corn kernel, forms from repeated pressure on the skin. Never remove a corn at home or by using medicated corn pads, as this can cause serious infection. When you visit my office as a patient, we can discuss your treatment options and I can recommend the most appropriate treatment option for you.

Calluses differ from corns but are also caused by pressure and repeated rubbing on the skin, such as from a shoe or sock. This rubbing causes the skin to produce a callus or protective layer of skin. Calluses vary in size and can become painful. Performing “bathroom surgery” on calluses can lead to cuts and infection. Instead, contact my office so we can determine the underlying cause of the callus and recommend treatment.