The medical condition that is known as hammertoe can occur as a result of wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in. It affects the second and third toes and causes them to bend at the middle joints, which often makes them resemble hammers. Patients may develop calluses on top of the affected toes, and this is the result of friction as the toes rub against the shoes. Effective treatment methods for mild cases can consist of wearing shoes that fit properly, and it may help to perform specific stretches. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to permanently straighten the toes. If you are afflicted with hammertoe, it is advised that you consult with a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can help you with proper treatment management.
Hammertoe
Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Landmark Foot and Ankle Center. 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
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 Alexandria, VA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
You Might Also Enjoy...
There are two types of pes planus, or flatfoot: flexible flatfoot and rigid flatfoot. For an individual with flexible flatfoot, their arches are normal when they are sitting or on their tiptoes, but collapse when they stand.
Throughout our lives, our feet support and carry the weight of our entire bodies. Therefore, it is no surprise that we may experience foot pain, or that foot problems can become increasingly more common as we age.
When you are experiencing foot pain, any relief is welcome. Pre-made shoe inserts (foot orthotics) purchased at the drug store can alleviate discomfort for some people.
Foot and ankle pain can cause difficulty in accomplishing everyday activities. The ankle consists of three bones that connect together, in addition to several ligaments, tendons, and muscles.
The human foot has twenty-six bones. A heel spur is defined as a bony hook that forms on the bottom of the heel. This often causes severe pain and discomfort, and it can be difficult to walk.
Suffering from a bunion? Looking for something less invasive than traditional surgery? Landmark Foot and Ankle podiatrists offer a minimally invasive technique called Minimal incision surgery (MIS) bunionectomy for treating bunions.
