Hammertoe: What It Is and How a Podiatrist Can Help

Wiki Article

Hammertoe is a common foot condition that causes one or more toes to bend abnormally at the middle joint. While it may start as a mild deformity, hammertoe can worsen over time, leading to pain, stiffness, and difficulty walking. If left untreated, it may even require surgery. Fortunately, a podiatrist can provide effective treatment options to relieve discomfort and prevent complications. If you’re experiencing symptoms, scheduling a podiatrist appointment can help you get the right care.

What Is Hammertoe?

Hammertoe occurs when the muscles and tendons in the toe become imbalanced, causing the toe to bend downward instead of lying flat. The condition most commonly affects the second, third, or fourth toe and can be classified into two types:

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  Flexible Hammertoe – The toe can still be moved at the joint.

  
  


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  Rigid Hammertoe – The toe is stuck in a bent position and cannot be straightened.

  
  

Causes of Hammertoe

Several factors can contribute to the development of hammertoe, including:

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  Improper Footwear – Shoes that are too tight, narrow, or have high heels force the toes into an unnatural position.

  
  


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  Muscle or Tendon Imbalance – When certain foot muscles overpower others, they pull the toe into a bent position.

  
  


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  Foot Structure Issues – High arches or flat feet can increase the risk of hammertoe.

  
  


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  Injury or Trauma – A toe injury, such as a fracture or stubbed toe, can lead to hammertoe over time.

  
  


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  Genetics – Some people inherit foot structures that make them more prone to developing hammertoes.

  
  


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  Arthritis or Nerve Conditions – Joint inflammation or neurological disorders can contribute to toe deformities.

  
  

Symptoms of Hammertoe

Hammertoe symptoms may include:

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  A bent or curled toe that does not lie flat.

  
  


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  Pain or discomfort in the affected toe, especially when wearing shoes.

  
  


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  Corns or calluses forming due to friction against footwear.

  
  


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  Swelling and redness around the toe joint.

  
  


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  Limited movement or stiffness in the affected toe.

  
  

How a Podiatrist Can Help Treat Hammertoe

1. Footwear Modifications

A podiatrist will recommend switching to comfortable, supportive shoes with a wide toe box to prevent pressure on the affected toe. Avoiding high heels and tight shoes can help prevent worsening of the condition.

2. Orthotics & Toe Pads

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  Custom orthotic inserts can correct foot imbalances and provide extra support.

  
  


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  Toe pads or cushions can reduce friction and prevent corns or calluses from forming.

  
  

3. Toe Exercises & Stretching

A podiatrist may recommend specific exercises to strengthen toe muscles and improve flexibility, such as:

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  Towel curls – Using your toes to scrunch up a towel.

  
  


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  Toe stretches – Gently pulling the affected toe to help realign it.

  
  


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  Marble pickups – Picking up small objects with your toes to strengthen foot muscles.

  
  

4. Medications for Pain & Inflammation

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  Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can help relieve pain and swelling.

  
  


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  Ice packs may also be used to reduce inflammation.

  
  

5. Splints & Taping

For flexible hammertoes, a podiatrist may suggest using splints or taping techniques to encourage proper toe alignment.

6. Corticosteroid Injections

In cases of severe pain, corticosteroid injections may be used to reduce inflammation and discomfort.

7. Hammertoe Surgery (For Severe Cases)

If hammertoe becomes rigid and causes significant pain or mobility issues, a podiatrist may recommend surgery to correct the deformity. Surgical options include:

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  Tendon release or lengthening to allow the toe to straighten.

  
  


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  Joint fusion to stabilize the toe in a corrected position.

  
  


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  Bone removal in severe cases to realign the toe.

  
  

When to Book a Podiatrist Appointment

You should schedule a podiatrist appointment if:

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  You notice a toe that is consistently bent or curled.

  
  


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  You experience pain, corns, or calluses due to hammertoe.

  
  


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  The toe becomes stiff or difficult to move.

  
  


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  Home remedies fail to provide relief.

  
  

Final Thoughts

Hammertoe can be uncomfortable and progressively worsen if left untreated. The good news is that early intervention can help prevent serious complications and the need for surgery. A podiatrist can assess your condition and provide customized treatment options to improve comfort and mobility. If you suspect you have hammertoe, don’t wait—schedule a podiatrist appointment today for expert care and relief.