How Can You Handle Hammertoes?
Have you noticed one of your smaller toes starting to bend downward at the middle joint, resembling a hammer? This common foot deformity is known as a hammertoe, and it can affect your second, third, fourth, or fifth toes.
While it may start as a flexible, minor issue, a hammertoe is a progressive condition that, if left untreated, can become rigid, painful, and require more intensive treatment. In this blog, Advanced Feet & Ankle Care will walk you through the steps of managing hammertoes, from the conservative options to the more intensive ones.
What Causes Hammertoes (and What Are the Symptoms?)
Hammertoes are typically caused by a muscle and tendon imbalance in the toe, which causes the middle joint to buckle. This imbalance can be aggravated by certain factors, especially shoes that are too tight or narrow in the toe box.
How do you know if you have a hammertoe? Look for…
A visible, downward bend at the middle joint of a toe.
Pain or irritation on the top of the bent toe where it rubs against your shoe.
The formation of painful corns or calluses on the top of the joint or on the tip of the toe.
Difficulty finding shoes that are comfortable.
Step 1: Conservative Care (Your First Line of Defense)
The primary goal of non-surgical treatment is to relieve pressure, reduce pain, and prevent the deformity from becoming rigid. For flexible hammertoes, try:
Footwear Changes: Switch to shoes with soft, roomy toe boxes that don't cramp your toes. Avoid narrow, pointed shoes and high heels.
Stretching & Exercises: Gentle exercises, like picking up a marble or towel with your toes, can help stretch and strengthen the toe muscles, which may help manage the underlying muscle imbalance.
Step 2: Advanced Conservative Options
If the simple changes above aren't providing enough relief, a podiatrist may recommend more structured support:
Straps and Splints: These devices can be worn to help hold the toe in a straighter, more natural position, providing relief and potentially slowing the progression of the deformity.
Custom Orthotics: If your hammertoe is related to a larger biomechanical issue like flat feet, a custom-fitted orthotic can help stabilize your foot, which may reduce the pressure on the muscles and tendons that control the toes.
Step 3: When Surgery is Considered
Over time, a flexible hammertoe can become rigid, meaning you can no longer straighten it out manually. At this stage, the deformity is fixed, and conservative measures are often no longer effective at relieving the pain.
If the rigid hammertoe causes significant, persistent pain or interferes with your daily activities, surgery may be recommended to correct the deformity.
Surgical procedures for hammertoes are typically straightforward and aim to release the tight tendon and realign the toe joint.
Don’t Wait to Make That Toe Straight!
If you notice a toe starting to bend, don't wait for it to become a painful, rigid problem. We’re here with answers, options, and the information you need!
Dr. Jason Grossman, Dr. Yaakov Tropper, and Dr. Paul A. Osemene are ready to help at our comfortable, convenient Advanced Feet and Ankle Care offices in Old Bridge, Sayreville, and Freehold. Call (732) 679-4330 to schedule your appointment, or contact us online.