Common Conditions
Hammertoe
Foot ulcers aren’t limited to those with diabetes; they can affect anyone, leading to pain, discomfort, and serious complications if left untreated.
Non-diabetic foot ulcers can be caused by a variety of factors, and at Sheehy Ankle & Foot Center, we specialize in identifying the root cause of these ulcers and providing tailored treatment plans to promote healing and prevent recurrence.
Hammertoe occurs when the middle joint of one or more of your toes becomes bent and stuck in that position, creating a claw-like appearance. This condition typically affects the second, third, or fourth toe and can cause pain, discomfort, and difficulty finding shoes that fit properly. While hammertoe can be flexible in its early stages, it may become rigid over time, making treatment more challenging.
- Visible bending of the toe joint, giving it a hammer-like appearance.
- Pain in the affected toe, especially when wearing shoes.
- Corns or calluses on the top of the toe from friction against footwear.
- Swelling or redness around the toe joint.
- Difficulty moving the affected toe.
Hammertoe can develop for various reasons, many of which are related to lifestyle and foot mechanics:
Shoes that are too tight or have high heels can force your toes into a bent position, leading to hammertoe over time.
Flat feet, high arches, or other structural issues can contribute to the development of hammertoe.
An injury to the toe can cause the muscles and tendons to tighten, leading to a hammertoe deformity.
Joint inflammation and deterioration from arthritis can cause or exacerbate hammertoe.
A family history of hammertoe or other foot deformities increases your risk.
Diagnosis at Sheehy
Hammertoe diagnosing typically involves a physical examination where we assess the flexibility of the toe and the severity of the deformity. In some cases, X-rays may be necessary to determine the extent of the joint damage and to help guide the treatment plan. At Sheehy Ankle & Foot Center, we take a comprehensive approach to ensure that you receive the most effective care for your specific situation.
At Sheehy Ankle & Foot Center, we offer a range of treatments designed to relieve pain, correct the deformity, and improve your foot’s function. The appropriate treatment will depend on the severity of your hammertoe and how flexible the joint is.
- Footwear Adjustments: Switching to shoes with a wider toe box and lower heels can alleviate pressure on the affected toe.
- Orthotic Devices: Custom insoles or pads can help correct your foot’s alignment and reduce pain.
- Toe Exercises: Stretching and strengthening exercises can improve flexibility and reduce the severity of hammertoe in its early stages.
- Splints or Taping: These can help reposition the toe and prevent further progression of the deformity.
- Anti-inflammatory Medications: NSAIDs can be used to reduce pain and swelling.
- Tendon Release: For hammertoes that are still flexible, a tendon release procedure can help straighten the toe by allowing the tight tendons to relax.
- Joint Resection: In more severe cases, removing a small portion of the bone can help straighten the toe and relieve pain.
- Fusion: This involves permanently straightening the toe by fusing the joint together, which is typically done for rigid hammertoes.
Taking steps to prevent hammertoe is essential, especially if you have risk factors such as a family history or structural foot issues:
Choose shoes that fit well, provide adequate support, and have a roomy toe box.
Limit the use of high heels, which can force your toes into an unnatural position.
Regularly performing exercises that strengthen the muscles in your feet can help maintain proper toe alignment.
Pay attention to any changes in the shape of your toes, and seek early treatment if you notice signs of hammertoe developing.
Living with hammertoe doesn’t have to mean living with pain. At Sheehy Ankle & Foot Center, we’re dedicated to helping you find relief through personalized, expert care. Whether you’re dealing with a newly developed hammertoe or have been struggling with it for years, our team is here to guide you through the treatment process and help you get back to the activities you enjoy.
Don’t let hammertoe hold you back — contact us today to explore your treatment options and take the first step toward pain-free living.
