Hammertoe is a deformity that causes one of the smaller toes to bend downward at its middle joint instead of lying flat. It most often affects the second toe, although it can occur in the third or fourth toes as well. In the early stages, the toe may still be flexible, but it can gradually become stiff if the condition progresses. Common symptoms include toe pain, swelling, and redness surrounding the affected joint. Some people also develop corns or calluses where the bent toe rubs against footwear. As the deformity worsens, walking and wearing shoes may become increasingly uncomfortable. Because hammertoe can become more difficult to treat over time, an early evaluation by a podiatrist is important to determine the severity of the condition and recommend appropriate treatment.
Several factors may contribute to hammertoe, including muscle imbalance, inherited foot structure, and wearing shoes that crowd the toes. Arthritis or previous toe injuries may also increase the risk. As the toe remains bent, the surrounding tendons and joints may become tighter, making it harder to straighten the toe. This can affect the way the foot functions while walking and place additional pressure on other areas of the foot. A comprehensive podiatry examination evaluates toe alignment, joint flexibility, and overall foot mechanics. Early diagnosis allows treatment to begin before the deformity becomes rigid or causes additional foot problems.
A podiatrist specializes in diagnosing and treating hammertoe while evaluating the overall health and function of the foot. Professional care focuses on relieving pain, improving toe alignment, and helping preserve mobility. Treatment is tailored to each patient's symptoms, activity level, and the severity of the deformity. Regular follow-up visits also help monitor progression and identify changes that may require additional care. If you are experiencing toe pain, difficulty wearing shoes, or symptoms of hammertoe, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.
Hammertoe
Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Howard Abramsohn, DPM from Ambulatory Foot and Ankle Associates, LLC. Our doctor 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 feel free to contact our office located in Mt Laurel Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
