Hammertoes develop when the muscles and tendons that normally keep the toes straight fall out of balance, causing one or more toes to bend at the middle joint. This condition often begins quietly but may progress with symptoms, such as aching pain, stiffness, and skin irritation. Common signs include redness, corns, and calluses. Hammertoes may look curled or buckled, and the affected toe can rub painfully against shoes, making walking uncomfortable and footwear difficult to tolerate. Causes include inherited foot structure, improper footwear, arthritis, or long-term pressure on the toes. A podiatrist can help by first performing a thorough examination and imaging, if needed, to confirm the diagnosis and identify contributing factors. Treatment may begin with shoe modifications, padding, or custom orthotics to relieve pressure and improve alignment, and can progress to targeted exercises, medications, or corrective procedures when necessary. If you have a hammertoe, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.
Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact David K. Morris, DPM of Florida. Our doctor 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 Plantation, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
