A hammertoe happens when one of the smaller toes bends abnormally at the middle joint. At first, the toe may still be flexible, but over time it can become stiff and painful. Shoes may rub against the raised joint, causing corns, blisters or swelling. Common causes include wearing poor footwear, muscle imbalance or foot structure. Early treatment may include splints, padding or custom inserts to relieve pressure and correct alignment. When these methods no longer help, surgery may be needed to straighten the toe and restore comfort. Surgical repair can involve removing a small piece of bone, releasing tight tendons or inserting a pin for support during healing. Recovery times vary, but many people return to walking with improved function and less pain. If your toe has become hard to move or to walk on, it is suggested you see a podiatrist to discuss what type of treatment might be most beneficial for you.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Neeta Hasmukh, DPM of Total Podiatry. 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 offices located in San Antonio, Uvalde, and Jourdanton, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.