Hammertoe Specialist

What is hammertoe?

Hammertoe is a condition of the middle joint of the toe. This condition typically affects the bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments of the middle three toes. With hammertoe, the toe joint becomes stiff and gets permanently stuck in a bent position.  

Hammertoe causes foot pain as it progresses and affects the joint. This places abnormal pressure and strain on the soft and supporting tissues surrounding the affected toes.

Mallet toe is another deformity of the toe joint which affects the joint nearest the toenail. Hammertoe and mallet toe have similar causes, symptoms, and treatments. It is not uncommon that someone has both hammertoe and mallet toe on the same foot.

What causes hammertoe?

Hammertoe happens when there is continuous abnormal pressure placed on the joint and supporting tissues of the toes. This occurs when one or more of your middle toes are longer than the big toe, and when you wear ill-fitting shoes.

You are at higher risk of having hammertoes when you have:

• Diabetes
• Arthritis
• A history of toe or foot injury
• An altered gait or walk

Bunions can significantly increase your risk for hammertoe, as they place progressively increased pressure on the toes from the side of the foot. If you have bunions, it is very likely that you have or will have hammertoes.

What are the symptoms of hammertoe?

Because hammertoes happen slowly over time, you may not have any significant symptoms initially. Once the condition has progressed, you may have symptoms such as:

• Rigid toe joint
• Limited toe mobility
• Corns or callused skin
• Pain in affected toes and foot
• Swelling in toes and surrounding tissues

If you have hammertoes, it is important you seek treatment at Premier Foot & Ankle to avoid long-term complications and worsening foot pain.

What are the treatments for hammertoe?

Premier Foot & Ankle offers services to help prevent progression and treat progressive hammertoe. Your provider adjusts your treatment plan depending on the severity of your condition.

Initial hammertoe treatment is conservative and includes:

• Specialized padding, taping, or splints
• Custom orthotics
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Topical creams
• Steroid injections
• Physical therapy

If conservative treatment is not effective or your hammertoe is too progressed, surgery may be the best option. Some surgical procedures utilize specialized hardware and implants to straighten the toe and relieve pressure on tissues of the foot.

For a consultation regarding your hammertoe, call or schedule an appointment online with Premier Foot & Ankle today.