When muscles, ligaments, or tendons in the feet become imbalanced from improper footwear, genetic foot conditions, diabetes, or neurological damage, a hammertoe may develop. This is a contracture deformity of joint(s) in a toe, causing it to become bent or curled, rather than laying flat and pointing forward. Hammertoes are a progressive disorder. At first, they are flexible (moveable), but may become rigid (fixed) if left untreated. Aside from being unattractive, hammertoes can cause corns and calluses to develop, as the bent toe can rub repeatedly against footwear. Hammertoes can also lead to other, more serious, complications such as bunions, arthritis pain, and  metatarsalgia. Treating a hammertoe in its early stages is important, before it becomes rigid and may require surgery. Contact a podiatrist as soon as you notice that your toe seems stuck in a bent position. Depending on the severity, pain, and cause of your hammertoe, your podiatrist may be able to treat it conservatively with orthotics and a change in footwear, specific exercises, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, cortisone injections and more.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Princeton Foot & Ankle Associates. 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 one of our offices located in Princeton and West Windsor, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.