The toes provide harmony to the body, and the foot condition that is referred to as hammertoe may cause difficulty in walking and can affect balance. Hammertoe is caused by an imbalance in the foot and can occur from wearing shoes that do have adequate room for the toes to move freely in. It affects the second and third toes, causing them to bend down at the joint, resembling a hammer. It is suggested that medical attention is sought when the first symptoms of hammertoe appear, and the toes may be straightened easily. In severe cases, larger shoes may have to be purchased, in addition to possibly having surgery performed for permanent straightening. Recovery time from this type of surgery may take several weeks, and it is advised that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist in the early stages who can offer correct treatment methods.
Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Deborah Rosenfeld of Rosenfeld Podiatry. Our doctor 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 our office located in Marlton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
