Hammertoe

What is a hammertoe?

A hammertoe is a common foot deformity that occurs when one of your toes has an abnormal bend in its middle joint, making it look like a hammer. The irregular bend can make it painful for you to stand or walk, and you may develop corns and calluses from the top of your toe rubbing against the inside of your shoes.

While you might not have any pain or discomfort initially, over time your hammertoe continues to lose flexibility, leading to a permanent bend and chronic foot pain.

What causes hammertoes?

A hammertoe forms when an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, and ligaments that support your toes pull the toe out of its normal, straight position. Your hammertoe may develop because of your foot shape and structure, or it could follow an injury or trauma. In some cases, the shoes you wear, particularly high heels or shoes that don’t have enough room in the toe box, can exacerbate the deformity.

When should I see a doctor about my hammertoe?

While hammertoes aren’t a medical emergency, you should talk to one of the podiatrists at Kaplansky Foot and Ankle Centers when you notice the condition. Hammertoes continue to worsen when left untreated. Also, like many other medical conditions, hammertoes are more easily treated in their early stages.

How are hammertoes treated?

The expert podiatrists at Kaplansky Foot and Ankle Centers provide customized treatments for hammertoes, depending on the severity of your condition. For example, if your hammertoe is mild, you may benefit from physical therapy to address the imbalance in your muscles and tendons. You may complete exercises like picking up marbles with your toes or stretches to release tension in your toes and feet. Your podiatrist may also suggest orthotics or prescribe a cortisone injection.

However, if your hammertoe is severe, your podiatrist may recommend surgery. Hammertoe surgery repositions the bones, tendons, and muscles in and around your hammertoe. Your podiatrist may use pins to hold your toe in the correct position as you recover and prevent the hammertoe from recurring.

If you’re concerned about your hammertoe, call Kaplansky Foot and Ankle Centers or schedule an appointment online today for expert assessment and treatment.