A hammertoe is a common foot deformity characterized by an abnormal bend in the middle joint of the second, third, or fourth toe. At Clinton Foot & Ankle Clinic, PC, Dr. David R. Levitsky, DPM, frequently evaluates patients from Clinton, MI, Jonesville, and the nearby areas who are struggling with the discomfort and visible changes associated with this condition. While hammertoes often start as flexible issues that can be managed with conservative care, they can become rigid and painful over time. Understanding why this imbalance occurs is essential for preventing the progression of the deformity.

The Role of Muscle and Tendon Imbalance

The primary cause of hammertoes is an imbalance in the muscles and tendons that work together to keep the toes straight. Each toe relies on a delicate tension between the tendons on the top and the bottom to maintain its alignment. When this balance is disrupted, the toe is pulled into a curled or bent position. Over time, the tendons tighten, and the joint becomes stuck in this "hammer-like" shape. This imbalance can be triggered by a variety of factors, ranging from your choice of footwear to your natural foot mechanics.

Foot Structure and Heredity

Your genetic makeup plays a significant role in your likelihood of developing hammertoes. If you were born with certain foot types, such as flat feet or high arches, your muscles may have to work harder to stabilize your foot while walking. This extra strain often leads to the digital imbalances that cause the toes to curl. Additionally, if you have a second toe that is naturally longer than your big toe, it is more likely to be forced into a bent position by the front of your shoes, eventually leading to a permanent deformity.

The Effect of Improper Footwear

One of the most avoidable causes of hammertoes is wearing shoes that do not fit properly. Footwear with a narrow, pointed toe box or high heels can cramp the toes into a flexed position. When the toes are held in this way for extended periods, they may eventually lose their ability to flatten out, even when you are barefoot. In our Clinton, MI, practice, we emphasize the importance of selecting shoes with adequate depth and width to allow the toes to function naturally and without restriction.

Trauma and Underlying Medical Conditions

In some cases, a specific injury, such as stubbing, jamming, or breaking a toe, can lead to the development of a hammertoe. Furthermore, certain systemic medical conditions that affect the nerves and muscles can increase your risk. For example, patients with diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis may experience changes in their foot structure that predispose them to hammertoes. Dr. Levitsky uses objective clinical evaluations to determine if another condition is contributing to your foot health issue.

Professional Podiatric Intervention

Our mission at Clinton Foot & Ankle Clinic, PC, is to provide the evidence-based care necessary to keep you moving comfortably. If you notice your toes beginning to curl or if you are experiencing pain from corns and calluses caused by rubbing against your shoes, early intervention is key. By treating hammertoes while they are still flexible, we can often use non-surgical treatments to manage the condition and prevent the need for more invasive procedures in the future. To schedule an assessment with Dr. David R. Levitsky, DPM, call our Clinton, MI, office at 1-855-825-4022.