Hammertoe and mallet toe are deformities that affect the joints of the toes, causing them to bend abnormally. Hammertoe involves a bend in the middle joint, while mallet toe affects the joint closest to the tip. These conditions are often caused by muscle imbalance, arthritis, trauma, or wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes. Symptoms include pain, stiffness, corns or calluses, and difficulty in moving the toe. The affected toe may appear bent downward and feel sore when walking or wearing shoes. A podiatrist can diagnose hammertoe or mallet toe through a physical examination and imaging tests, such as X-rays. Treatment options vary based on severity, and may include custom orthotics, shoe modifications, or splinting. In more advanced cases, surgical correction may be necessary to realign the joint. Early intervention can prevent the condition from worsening. If you notice changes in the shape or flexibility of your toes, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat hammertoe.
Hammertoe
Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Brondon Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.
Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.
Symptoms
- Pain in the affected toes
- Development of corns or calluses due to friction
- Inflammation
- Redness
- Contracture of the toes
Causes
Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible
Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur
Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe
Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe
Treatment
Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it
Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used
Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Centerville, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
