The foot condition that is known as hammertoe is considered to be a deformity. It is a noticeable ailment that affects the toes, and can resemble a hammer. The middle joint of the second toe bends downward, and corns may form on top of the affected joint. The toes are made of muscles, bones, joints, tendons, and ligaments. These vital parts of the toe work together to bend and straighten the toes, and hammertoe can develop if there is an imbalance in the toe structure. It can come from wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in, or from shoes that are too tight. Wearing the wrong footwear can squeeze the toes into a bent position. There are some patients who may be prone to developing this deformity that have existing medical conditions including flat feet, or longer toe bones. Relief may be found when specific stretches are practiced, including toe flexion and extension, and performing a foam roll massage. If you have been afflicted with hammertoe, please confer with a podiatrist who can determine the severity of this condition, and recommend correct treatment options.
Hammertoe
Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Dr. Kendall Blackwell from InStride Wilson Podiatry Associates. 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
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 Wilson, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
