A foot deformity known as a hammertoe is caused by an imbalance of the ligament and the muscle in the toe joint. It results in a toe where the middle joint rises up to form a mountain shape. Hammertoes are frequently experienced by women, as the result of wearing high-heeled shoes for long periods of time. The structure of the shoe, especially those with pointy toe boxes and very high heels, puts too much pressure on the toes and can cause joint imbalance. Other causes of hammertoes include high arches, bunions, and arthritis. In some cases, a hammertoe may be the result of an injury, as sudden trauma can cause the muscles and tendons in the toe to slip out of alignment. Flat feet are another cause of hammertoe because those with flat feet rely more on their toes for stability. And some people are genetically inclined to develop hammertoes. Hammertoes are categorized as flexible, semi-rigid, or rigid. Treatment ranging from non-invasive to surgical will depend on the status of the hammertoe. Please contact a podiatrist for an examination and treatment suggestions if you have a hammertoe.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Dr. Kendall Blackwell of InStride Wilson Podiatry Associates. Our doctor 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 office located in Wilson, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.