Hammertoe is a foot deformity in which one or more of the smaller toes bend downward at the middle joint. This is often due to muscle imbalance or prolonged pressure from wearing ill-fitting footwear. Patients may first notice a curling toe that becomes difficult to straighten. As the hammertoe progresses, it may cause pain in the affected toe or in the ball of the foot. Also, corns or calluses may form from friction against shoes. A podiatrist can diagnose hammertoe through a physical exam and may use imaging if joint damage or arthritis is suspected. In its early stages, the toe may still be flexible, and treatment can include wearing supportive footwear or splinting to help correct alignment. However, if the toe becomes rigid and fixed in place, surgery may be required to restore function by realigning the bones or releasing tight tendons. If you have developed a hammertoe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Dr. John P. Beaupied from Palos Podiatry. 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 Palos Heights, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.