Hammertoes are a common foot irregularity where the middle joint of one (or multiple) small toes becomes misshapen and begins to resemble a hammer. If you work or live in the greater Clinton, & Jonesville, MI region, and experience discomfort/pain when wearing certain footwear, contact Dr. David Levitsky at the Clinton Foot & Ankle Clinic for a consultation today.
What Causes Hammertoes?
Hammertoes may develop due to a number of factors, which, ultimately, create enough of an imbalance that impacts the tendons, ligaments, and muscles typically in alignment to keep the toe straight. While age, certain medical conditions (i.e., nerve damage), and genetics (i.e., weak muscles) clearly play a role, these other factors may also contribute to the development of hammertoes -
Foot Structure
Having high arches or a second toe that happens to be longer than your big toe can increase your risk of hammertoe development.
Improper Footwear
Wearing ill-fitted shoes – those that require your foot to be in an unnatural position or shoes that are too narrow or too tight– with a toe box that does not allow your toes to move freely - can contribute to the development of hammertoes over time.
Injury
An injury, like stubbing your toe, can cause muscle imbalances that increase the likelihood of hammertoe formation.
Podiatric Treatments for Hammertoes
The most suitable hammertoe treatment approaches will depend on the patient’s condition, overall health, pain tolerance, and level of activity level. Options include -
Non-Surgical Treatments
Footwear Modifications
Wearing proper-fitting, low-heeled shoes – or those designed with an oversized/roomy toe box can help reduce the toe pressure.
Medications
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are effective in managing swelling and pain related to hammertoes.
Orthotic Inserts
Orthotics – which can be bought as over-the-counter options (or prescribed as custom inserts), can improve your foot’s alignment, thereby reducing pain and pressure.
Toe Exercises
Toe exercises may be prescribed to halt the progression of the hammertoe and strengthen/stretch toe muscles.
Splinting/Padding and Taping
To reduce friction/pressure, a podiatrist may pad or tape the impacted toes to reduce pain and inflammation. In certain instances, a splint/strap can help realign the affected toe.
Corticosteroid Injections
These help reduce inflammation and pain in the toe joints, providing relief from painful hammertoe symptoms.
Surgical Intervention
If conservative treatments fail to offer symptom relief or the hammertoe is severe, surgery may be an option.
Consult a Leading Clinton & Jonesville, MI Podiatrist Today
Early intervention is vital in helping to prevent hammertoes from worsening. If you suspect you have hammertoes or have any type of foot pain, contact Dr. Levitsky or a member of Clinton Foot & Ankle Clinic’s staff at 517-456-4114.