Hammer Toe Specialist

What is a hammertoe?

A Hammertoe is a deformity of the second, third or fourth toes. In this condition, the toe is bent at the middle joint, resembling a hammer. Left untreated, hammertoes can become inflexible and require surgery. People with hammertoes may have corns or calluses on the top of the middle joint of the toe or on the tip of the toe. They may also feel pain in their toes or feet and have difficulty finding comfortable shoes.

Causes of hammertoe include improperly fitting shoes and muscle imbalance. Treatment for the condition typically involves shoes with soft, roomy toe boxes and toe exercises to stretch and strengthen the muscles. Commercially available straps, cushions or non-medicated corn pads may also relieve symptoms.

Why do I have a hammertoe?

Hammertoes form as a result of connective tissue imbalances. When your toe is bent at the middle joint on a daily basis the tendons and muscles in your smaller toes become trained to stay in that position. They get to the point where they can no longer keep your toe flat. For example, this may occur if you frequently wear pointy or snug-fitting shoes.

But it’s not only ill-fitting footwear that’s to blame when it comes to hammertoe. You can also develop this painful and unsightly condition due to:

• Arthritis
• Injury or trauma
• Inherited traits

No matter what’s causing your hammertoe, it’s important to start treatment early on. Otherwise, hammertoes progress and become stiff and rigid.

When should I see a podiatrist for hammertoes?

At Worman Foot & Ankle Associates, you can get started on hammertoe treatment as soon as you notice the joint deformity developing — while your toe is still flexible. It’s especially important to start hammertoe treatment if you’re experiencing:

• Limited toe range-of-motion
• Painful corns or calluses
• Swelling or inflammation
• Worsening stiffness
• Open sores

Dr. Worman can use in-office digital X-ray or ultrasound imaging to diagnose the severity of your hammertoe. Once Dr. Worman diagnoses your condition, he educates you about all of your possible hammertoe treatment options and what to expect in the long run.

What is hammertoe treatment?

Your hammertoe treatment plan from Worman Foot & Ankle Associates depends on the severity of your condition. Some of the most effective hammertoe solutions include a combination of:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Corn or callus removal or padding
• Daily toe exercises and stretches
• Changes in footwear
• Custom orthotics
• Specialized straps

For more complex hammertoes that are severely rigid and deformed, Dr. Worman could recommend surgery. Hammertoe surgery is minimally invasive and allows Dr. Worman to realign your toe joint and remove any inflamed tissues. He can even correct multiple hammertoes during a single procedure, so you can recover and get back to your regular activities as quickly as possible.

You can get effective hammertoe treatment at Worman Foot & Ankle Associates starting with your first appointment. Book your hammertoe evaluation online or over the phone.