Hammertoes...What Are They?

Hammertoes are a common foot problem for people who spend a significant amount of time on their feet and who wear certain types of shoes for long periods. Some people think that hammertoes are untreatable and that they’ll have to live with them forever, but that’s not always the case. A podiatrist at The Foot and Ankle Group in Philadelphia, PA and Mount Laurel, Bordentown, Columbus, NJ can help.

What Are Hammertoes?
Hammertoes happen when the toe bones begin to protrude unnaturally upward because of some kind of pressure or stress on the toes. The top of each toe may become swollen and red, making the problem even more pronounced. The tips of the toes point toward the floor and may sometimes hang over when you wear open-toed shoes. Normally, a patient can bend, lift and stretch the toes at will, but with hammertoes they may be stuck in the same position. It is an embarrassing foot problem that can also be painful.

Common Causes of Hammertoes
Hammertoes are most commonly caused by wearing shoes that put pressure on the toes. They may also be related to an arthritic condition. Some foot experts believe that hammertoes are hereditary—if your parents had problems with this foot condition you may be more prone to it yourself.

Treating Your Hammertoes
If your Philadelphia, PA or Mount Laurel, Bordentown, Columbus, NJ podiatrist diagnoses you with hammertoes, a number of treatment options will be explored. Here are some of the most common ways to deal with this troubling foot problem:

- Foot orthotic devices for support and to realign the toes.
- Toe exercises to strengthen toe muscles.
- Changes in shoes (orthopedic shoes may be recommended).
- NSAID medication to ease pain in the toe joints.
- Hammertoe surgery of the ligaments, tendons, and bones to straighten each toe. 

Call for Treatment
If your feet are in distress due to hammertoes, help is available from a podiatrist at The Foot and Ankle Group in Philadelphia, PA and Mount Laurel, Bordentown, Columbus, NJ. Call the office today to schedule time for a foot exam and consultation.