How to Handle Your Hammertoe
If you feel like it’s time to get a handle on your hammertoe, you’ve come to the right place. A hammertoe is the most common deformity when it comes to the lesser toes, meaning it’s an irritating part of a lot of people's lives.
The expert team at Goldsmith Podiatry wants you to move through life pain-free, and taking the first steps toward healing your hammertoes will get you on the right track. Check out the info below so you can learn more about this condition and, more importantly, find relief.
What Are Hammertoes?
This common foot condition occurs when the middle toe joint bends abnormally, resulting in a hammer or claw-like appearance. It most commonly occurs in the second and third toes; however, any toe can be affected.
What Causes Hammertoes?
Ill-Fitting Shoes: Narrow shoes can cause the toe to bend upward, and subsequently, the muscles and tendons become shorter and tighten, keeping the toe in that bent position.
Imbalanced Muscles: A muscle imbalance may put extra pressure on the toe tendons and joints.
Toe Trauma: If you’ve stubbed or broken your toe, it may settle in this crooked position.
Arthritis: Inflammatory joint conditions may lead to the development of hammertoes.
Genetics: Predisposition to neuromuscular or connective tissue conditions may result in hammertoes.
Symptoms of Hammertoes Include
Pain from wearing shoes.
Stiffness and impaired mobility in the affected toe.
Redness and swelling.
Corns and calluses due to pressure.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options for Hammertoes
Opt for wider shoes with a larger toe box to alleviate pressure from the affected area.
Incorporate toe spacers, exercises, and padding to prevent further deformity.
Choose custom-fitted orthotics to prevent the condition from worsening.
In some cases, hammertoe correction may require surgery if the above methods don't alleviate the pain and discomfort or in cases of severe deformities.
At Goldsmith Podiatry, we’re dedicated to delivering pain-free steps so you can move freely about your day - that means letting us help you tackle hammertoes or any other conditions you’re experiencing! Our board-certified DPMs offer comprehensive services that focus on a wide range of foot conditions. Dr. Howard Goldsmith, Dr. Rosanna Troia, and Dr. Kristina T. Ruff are here to serve you, so set up an appointment today by calling (212) 877 1002 or contact us online!