What is hammertoe?
Hammertoe is a common foot condition that causes abnormal bending at the joints of your toes. Hammertoe can make it difficult to wear shoes or walk without pain.
There are several issues that can contribute to the development of hammertoe. In most cases, hammertoe occurs when there is an imbalance in the tendons and muscles in your feet.
Hammertoe can also be caused by toe injuries, nerve damage, and arthritis. Wearing tight-fitting shoes can also aggravate hammertoe symptoms or increase your risk of developing the condition.
Hammertoe doesn’t go away on its own and doesn’t improve without proper treatment. Advanced Foot, Ankle, & Wound Specialists, PA, provides personalized treatment plans based on your symptoms and the severity of your condition.
What are the symptoms of hammertoe?
If you notice your toes starting to curl downward, you may have hammertoe. This is a progressive condition that starts off mild and worsens over time. During the early stages of hammertoe, the affected toes may appear bent but remain flexible.
As the condition continues, the toes become stiff and rigid, causing redness, swelling, and pain when wearing shoes.
Hammertoe may cause corns and calluses to develop between your toes or on the ball of your foot. Severe hammertoe can cause significant irritation which can lead to open sores.
Because hammertoe worsens over time, early detection is key to successful treatment. If you notice signs of hammertoe, book an appointment at Advanced Foot, Ankle, & Wound Specialists, PA, as soon as possible.
What treatments are available for hammertoe?
The team offers both conservative and surgical treatment for hammertoe. In many cases, the team at Advanced Foot, Ankle, & Wound Specialists, PA, can effectively address your condition with nonsurgical treatment.
The goal of nonsurgical treatment is to relieve your pain and realign the affected toes. Depending on your condition, nonsurgical treatment may include:
- Footwear changes
- Padding
- Splinting
- Orthotics
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
Once the affected toes become stiff and rigid, you may require surgery to correct it. The team is board-certified in podiatric surgery and has extensive experience correcting foot problems.
Whether your condition requires conservative care or surgery, Advanced Foot, Ankle, & Wound Specialists, PA, works with you to develop the right treatment plan.
To schedule your visit at Advanced Foot, Ankle, & Wound Specialists, PA, call the office or book online today.
