The toes that are typically affected by hammertoe are the second, third, or fourth toes. Patients who have family members that have this condition may be prone to developing it. It can also come from wearing shoes that do not fit properly, and have inadequate room for the toes to move freely in. This may cause the joints in the second toe to gradually cross over to the toe next to it, and can cause pain and discomfort. Additionally, it may become stiff, and surgery may be a necessary treatment option to have it permanently straightened. Patients sometimes develop a callus that can form on top of the affected toe. This can be a result of friction that comes from the toe rubbing against the shoe. Calluses may also develop on the sole of the foot, and this may happen from chronic stress the foot is under. If you are afflicted with hammertoe, it is advised that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can properly diagnosis and treat this condition.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Abeer M. Foteh, DPM of Greater Houston Foot Centers. 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 Baytown, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.