hammertoe treatment
Hammer toes are contractions of the toe caused by a muscular imbalance in the foot where the tendons on the bottom of the foot over power the tendons on the top of the foot. As the toes contract they may become permanently bent in a flexed position.
what is hammertoe?
A hammertoe is a deformity of the toe in which the middle joint of the toe becomes bent, causing the toe to resemble a hammer. This condition can affect any toe on the foot, but it most commonly affects the second or third toes. The toe becomes stiff and may be painful, especially when wearing tight shoes.
hammertoe symptoms
Some common symptoms of a hammertoe include:
- A toe that is bent at the middle joint, so that it resembles a hammer
- Pain or discomfort when wearing tight shoes or when walking
- Swelling or redness in the affected toe
- Difficulty moving the toe or difficulty fitting it into a shoe
- Corns or calluses on the top of the toe or the ball of the foot
- A toe that feels stiff or that is difficult to straighten out
Meet with our team to get started on your hammertoe treatment.
what causes hammertoe?
There are several factors that can contribute to the development of a hammertoe, including:
- Imbalanced muscle or ligament strength: An imbalance in the muscles and ligaments that normally hold the toe in a straight position can lead to hammertoe. Weakness or tightness in these structures can cause the toe to bend abnormally.
- Genetics: Some individuals may have an inherited predisposition to developing hammertoe. If your family members have a history of the condition, you may be more likely to develop it as well.
- Foot anatomy: Certain foot structures or abnormalities can increase the risk of hammertoe. For example, having a high arch or flat feet can affect the distribution of weight on the toes and contribute to toe deformities.
- Improper footwear: Wearing shoes that are too tight, narrow, or have high heels can force the toes into unnatural positions, leading to the development of hammertoe. Shoes that don’t provide enough space for the toes to move freely can exacerbate the condition.
- Trauma or injury: A toe injury, such as stubbing or breaking the toe, can disrupt the normal alignment of the toe joints and contribute to the development of hammertoe.
- Arthritis: Certain types of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis, can cause joint inflammation and deformities, including hammertoe.
hammertoe treatment
Treatment for a hammertoe will depend on the severity of the deformity and the symptoms being experienced. Some options may include:
- Wearing wider shoes: Shoes that have a wider toe box may help to reduce pressure on the toes and alleviate discomfort.
- Using padding or inserts: Pads or inserts that go inside the shoe can help to alleviate pressure on the toes and reduce discomfort.
- Exercises: Stretching and strengthening exercises can help to stretch out the muscles and tendons in the toes and improve flexibility.
- Splinting or taping: A splint or tape can be used to hold the toe in a straight position and allow the muscles and tendons to relax.
- Orthotic devices: Custom orthotic devices, such as arch supports or shoe inserts, can help to correct abnormalities in the foot and reduce the risk of developing hammertoes.
- Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct a hammertoe. This can involve straightening the toe, fusing the joints in the toe, or removing a piece of bone to straighten the toe.