Hammertoes
HAMMERTOES
WHAT IS HAMMERTOE AND HOW IS IT CAUSED?
Hammertoes develop when one or both of the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth (little toes) bend and contract. This abnormal positioning can lead to discomfort and additional pressure put on the toes when wearing shoes, which can cause problems to develop over time.
There are a variety of issues that can cause hammertoes, ranging from improperly fitted shoes, muscle/tendon imbalances, or possible trauma to the toe.
COMMON SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
- Pain or soreness of the affected toe
- Development of corns, calluses, etc.
- Inflammation and redness
- Contracture of the toe
- Open sores or wounds (in severe cases)
TREATMENT OPTIONS
Most hammertoes start off as minor deformities of the toe(s). When caught early, most hammertoes can be managed with non-invasive treatment. Hammertoes left unaddressed will often become more rigid and be more difficult to correct with non-surgical methods.
