Healthy toes play a significant role in standing and walking. The foot condition that is known as hammertoe is considered to be a deformity and can cause difficulty in walking. It is a noticeable condition that causes the second toe to bend downwards. This can overlap other toes, and corns may develop on top of the affected toes as they rub against the shoe. It may become difficult to straighten the toe, and surgery could become necessary. Hammertoe can occur from genetic reasons and from wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely. There may also be existing medical conditions that may lead some patients to develop hammertoe. These include having a high or low arch, arthritis, or bunions. People who are diabetic may also be susceptible and may not feel blisters or calluses that can form. Relief may be found when wearing shoes that fit correctly as well as using protective pads on top of the toes. Hammertoe is a condition that is treated by a podiatrist, and it is suggested that you schedule a consultation so the correct treatment can begin.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact the foot specialists from Spartan Podiatry. Our doctors 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 offices located in Battle Creek, and Marshall, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.