What is a hammertoe?
Hammertoe is a condition that occurs because of imbalances in ligaments, muscles, or tendons that support your toe. It causes an abnormal bend in the middle joint of one of your toes, especially your second, third, or fourth toes. Treatment can reduce pain and pressure to improve your quality of life.
What do hammertoes look like?
If you have hammertoes, you might notice the following signs or symptoms:
- Abnormal bend in toe joints
- Pain in your toe
- Difficulty moving the affected toe
- Corns
- Calluses
- Toes that are rubbing together
If you suspect you have a hammertoe and want to know for sure, see Dr. Jones at Endurance Foot and Ankle for an evaluation.
What are risk factors for hammertoes?
High arches, flat feet, ill-fitting shoes, foot trauma, and diseases like arthritis and diabetes are among the most common risk factors for hammertoes.
How is a hammertoe diagnosed?
To find out if you have hammertoes and develop an effective treatment, Dr. Jones discusses your symptoms and medical history. He examines your feet and toes and might evaluate your feet while you stand or walk. Dr. Jones may also order X-rays.
How are hammertoes treated?
If you have hammertoes, Dr. Jones may recommend one or more of the following treatments:
Home remedies
Things you can do at home to reduce hammertoe pain include switching to shoes that fit your feet comfortably and icing affected toes as needed.
Orthotics
Custom-fitted orthotics available at Endurance Foot and Ankle can help provide comfort or alter load on the foot to minimize or relieve the symptoms of your hammertoe.
Physical therapy
Strengthening exercises and stretches may help with your hammertoe deformity.
Surgery
If conservative treatments do not alleviate your hammertoe pain, Dr. Jones offers surgery to help restore your toe’s structure and function, and--most importantly--relieve your pain.
To learn more about treatments for hammertoes or find out if you have the condition, call Endurance Foot and Ankle or book an appointment online today.
