Hammertoe is a condition in which the joints of a toe become deformed, causing the toe to bend abnormally downward. This condition generally affects the second toe, but can occur in the third, fourth, or pinky toes. The hammertoe may be flexible or rigid. Signs that indicate you have developed a hammertoe can include pain at the top of the toe due to pressure from your shoes, pain at the base of the toe, corns on top of the toe, redness and swelling, and a decreased range of motion in the affected toe. Treatments depend on the severity of the hammertoe and can include conservative measures, such as wearing specialized foot pads or shoe inserts. In more severe cases surgery may be necessary. If you suspect that you have a hammertoe, it is recommended that you visit a podiatrist for proper care and treatment.
Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Ankle N Foot. our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.
Hammertoe
Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.
Symptoms
- Painful and/or difficult toe movement
- Swelling
- Joint stiffness
- Calluses/Corns
- Physical deformity
Risk Factors
- Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
- Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
- Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
- Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe
Treatment
If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Chicago, Elmhurst, Bartlett, IL and Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
