Hammertoes are foot deformities that cause an abnormal bend in the toe. Though hammertoes get worse over time, early treatment may delay the progression of the deformity and the pain that comes with it. At Meridian Podiatry in Jacksonville, Florida, Norshae Robinson, DPM, DABPM, FACPM, and the team provide medical and surgical treatment options for hammertoes. For expert care of your hammertoes, call the office or book a consultation online today.
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What are hammertoes?
A hammertoe is a foot condition that affects the first or second joint in your toe, causing an abnormal bend. With a hammertoe, the joint in your toe points up instead of lying flat.
The foot deformity develops because of weak muscles in your foot or leg, causing the tendons that connect to your toes to pull on the joint, creating the abnormal bend.
What are the types of hammertoes?
Hammertoes are progressive foot deformities. Podiatrists classify a hammertoe into one of three types based on the progression of the foot condition. These types include:
Flexible hammertoes
With flexible hammertoes, the tendons still have movement, giving you the ability to bend and flex your toes.
Semi-rigid hammertoes
When your tendons start to stiffen, your hammertoe becomes semi-rigid. You can still move the affected toe but with less flexibility.
Rigid hammertoes
A rigid hammertoe means your abnormal toe no longer moves.
What are the symptoms of hammertoes?
Hammertoe symptoms vary depending on the progression of your foot deformity and the affected toe or toes. Symptoms may include:
- Rigid toe joint
- Pain at the top of the bend in the affected toe
- Pain in the ball of your foot
- Development of corns or calluses
- Difficulty wearing certain types of shoes
- Joint swelling
- Sores or ulcers on the tip of your toe joint
You may be at risk of developing a hammertoe if they run in your family. Trauma to your foot or leg that affects muscle strength may also cause hammertoes.
How are hammertoes treated?
Dr. Robinson and the team at Meridian Podiatry offer many treatment options for hammertoes. The specifics of your treatment plan depend on the type of hammertoe you have and your symptoms.
They initially recommend conservative treatments such as:
- Proper shoe gear
- Toe strapping
- Toe padding
- Custom-made orthotics
- Steroid injections
- Physical therapy
When conservative therapy no longer provides significant relief from your symptoms, Dr. Robinson may recommend surgery. She offers minimally invasive surgical options for hammertoes, including in-office procedures to allow for faster recovery and eliminate expensive hospital bills.
Hammertoes get worse over time and benefit from early and ongoing podiatry care. Find out more about treatment for your hammertoes at Meridian Podiatry by calling the office or scheduling an appointment online today.
