Have hammertoes? Hammertoes are toes that are bent because of weakened muscles. In the early stages, hammertoes are flexible and the symptoms can be managed with non-surgical treatments. If left untreated, a hammertoe can become rigid and will not respond to noninvasive treatments. The Foot and Ankle Group with offices in Mount Laurel, Philadelphia, Bordentown, and Columbus can help you if you are dealing with hammertoes.
About Hammertoes
A hammertoe is a foot condition that causes your toe to curl or bend downward instead of pointing forward. This condition can affect any toe on your foot. Because of the progressive nature of the deformity, it should receive early attention. Hammertoes will not get better without treatment.
Causes of Hammertoes
Hammertoes are often caused by wearing too-narrow, ill-fitting footwear with little to no arch support. In some people, hammertoes are inherited. Sometimes, hammertoe is the result of an earlier trauma to the toe. In addition, neuromuscular diseases can contribute to the development of hammertoes. Diabetics can be at increased risk for complications from a hammertoe.
Symptoms of Hammertoes
Hammertoes may cause pain or irritation of the toe when wearing shoes. The toe joint may swell and takes on a red color. The ball of the foot under the bent toe may be painful. It may be hard to move the toe joint -- and it may hurt when you try. Corns may form on the top of the toe joint.
Treatments for Hammertoes
Drugs that reduce inflammation can ease the swelling and pain. Sometimes, a podiatric doctor will use steroid shots to relieve pain. Padding the areas around the bony point of the toe may help to reduce pain. Splinting the toe may help in the early stages. Your podiatrist may also give you custom-made shoe inserts to treat your hammertoes. Your doctor may recommend surgery if you have severe hammertoes.
You don't have to hurt anymore. If you need a qualified Philadelphia podiatrist, call one of the Foot and Ankle Group's offices- Mount Laurel- (856) 234-0195; Philadelphia- (215) 332-5300; Bordentown- (609) 291-0960; Columbus- (609) 298-7000. We offer many non-surgical, highly effective solutions for hammertoes.
