A condition referred to as hammertoe is easier to identify than it is to treat. This condition causes the middle of the toe to bend, causing the bottom of the toe to be in a downward position. Corns or calluses may often accompany hammertoe, which is caused by the friction the affected joint endures while rubbing against the shoe. There may be several causes responsible for the development of hammertoes, including lack of strength within the foot that may be a result of having diabetes in addition to a predisposed inherited gene. It’s common for this ailment to develop from wearing incorrect shoes that cause the toes to be cramped together, such as high heels. Recent research has suggested that there may be a connection between hammertoes and other conditions such as arthritis, flat feet, and pain on the bottom of the foot. Proper treatment may consist of splinting the affected toe, and surgery may be an option if the affliction is severe. Please schedule a consultation with a podiatrist for treatment options and additional information about hammertoes.
Hammertoe
Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Dr. Jeffrey Wachtel from Wachtel Family Foot Care. 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 contact our office located in Lansdale, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about What Are Hammertoes?
