A hammertoe can happen to any of the toes of the feet. It occurs when a toe contracts or pulls more than it normally should. As there are changes that occur, it is possible to get pain to the top, bottom, or tip of the affected toes.
What Causes a Hammertoe?
There are multiple possible causes for hammertoes:
- Pes planus (flat foot)
- Pes cavus (high arched foot)
- Muscle imbalance
- Ligament imbalance or attenuation
- Neurologic conditions affecting the feet
- Injury (trauma)
- Shoes that are too small
How Do I Know if I Have a Hammertoe?
Usually patients with hammertoes will start to notice a contracture (pulling) of the toe in a different direction. There might be any of the following symptoms:
- Toe pain
- Calluses or corns to the toes
- Change in direction of the toe
- Increased friction or rubbing of the toe
- Toe wounds
What are Treatment Options for Hammertoes?
Your foot doctor (Podiatrist) will review multiple conservative and surgical treatment options. These might include:
- Oral medication
- Steroid injection to the toes
- Changing shoes
- Custom or OTC orthotics
- Hammertoe surgery
- Weil Osteotomy of the metatarsal of the foot
- Wound care
Reach out to Dr. Goldfine or your local Podiatrist (foot doctor) to set up an appointment to evaluate your hammertoes!
Author
Ryan Goldfine, DPM
Dr. Ryan Goldfine is a board certified foot and ankle surgeon. He is a Marietta Podiatrist.
