The medical condition that is known as a hammertoe is considered to be a deformity of the second and third toes. It is considered to be one of the more painful foot conditions, and it may be more common among women. This may be a result of wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in. The second toe may gradually bend at the joint in the direction to the third toe. Additionally, the shoe may consistently touch the top of the toe, possibly causing a corn to form. Mild relief may be found when custom made orthotics are worn. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to permanently straighten the toes. If you are afflicted with a hammertoe, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you find the correct treatment options.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Eastern Carolina Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.

Symptoms

• Painful and/or difficult toe movement
• Swelling
• Joint stiffness
• Calluses/Corns
• Physical deformity

Risk Factors

• Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
• Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
• Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
• Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe

Treatment

If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Greenville, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.