A hammertoe is a painful foot condition in which the toe bends downward, creating a hammer-like shape. They are normally caused by wearing shoes that are too tightly fitted, and may also be accompanied by the development of a bunion. In order to help straighten, and relieve the pain that comes with having a hammertoe, it may be useful to look into wearing orthotics. Some common orthotics used to help hammertoes include toe wraps. Toe wraps are elastic bandages with a Velcro strap, used to bind the hammertoe together with the toe next to it. Toe socks are socks that have five holes for each toe that help to keep them separated. Toe crest pads are also helpful, in that they wrap around the hammertoe and aid in preventing the toes from overlapping. For more information on orthotics and ways to help treat a hammertoe, we recommend you consult with a podiatrist for an advised treatment plan and professional care.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Joseph D. Ruffo, DPM, PC of New York. 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 one of our offices located in Sea Cliff and Babylon, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.