Hammertoe Specialist

Why do hammertoes form? 

Each of your toes has tendons, ligaments, and muscles that work together to keep your toe flat and to provide flexibility. Hammertoes are abnormal bends in your toe joint that occur when these connective tissues are imbalanced.

For example, if your second toes are longer than your big toes, they likely get scrunched up every time you slip into shoes. This probably isn’t a concern if it happens occasionally. 

But if your second toe has to stay in this bent position on a regular basis, eventually, the connective tissues and joints get “trained” to stay in this new position. This is when hammertoes form. 

Your chances of developing hammertoes are higher if you have arthritic deterioration or suffered from toe trauma, such as a broken toe.

Do hammertoes cause pain?

Not always, especially in the early stages. Much like bunions, hammertoes are progressive. Your hammertoes may be flexible initially and flatten right back out when you take off your tight-fitting shoes.

Over time though, hammertoes often become stiff and rigid. The more your hammertoe progresses, the more likely you are to struggle with:

• Calluses or corns
• Swelling and inflammation
• Pain in your toes or forefoot

If you have hammertoes and are starting to experience any of these symptoms, contact Vittori Foot & Ankle Specialist for an evaluation. 

What is the treatment for hammertoes?

The team at Vittori Foot & Ankle Specialist gathers any necessary imaging, such as an X-ray, to determine the severity of your hammertoe deformity to better customize your treatment plan. Treating hammertoes usually begins with conservative solutions, including:

• Roomier shoes
• Taping and strapping
• Specialized padding
• Supportive orthotic inserts
• Targeted stretching exercises

For severely rigid hammertoes or hammertoes that just don’t respond to conservative treatments, you may need surgery. Hammertoe surgery is minimally invasive and involves releasing rigid connective tissues and properly aligning your toe joint.

The team at Vittori Foot & Ankle Specialist is dedicated to ensuring your treatment is entirely effective for your hammertoe diagnosis and any related symptoms. 

Before your hammertoe worsens any further, contact Vittori Foot & Ankle Specialist for an evaluation. You can book your appointment online or over the phone.