A hammertoe affects one of the three middle toes of the foot, causing the toe to bend upward at its middle joint. Wearing shoes with larger foot beds, using shoe inserts or padding, toe stretching and strengthening exercises, and other lifestyle changes might be enough to manage a hammertoe.  However, if those kinds of things do not help, surgery may be called for. Those with other foot problems like bunions, corns, or heel spurs may have surgery to take care of all problems at once. However, if one has poor blood circulation in their feet, any kind of foot infection, or health problems that make surgery a risky option, they are unlikely to be a good candidates. If you think you have a hammertoe and cannot find relief, consult a podiatrist for a customized treatment plan.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from ABC Podiatry. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

• Pain in the affected toes
• Development of corns or calluses due to friction
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Columbus, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.