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Hammer Toes
Hammer Toes
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 hammertoes 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.
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Hammer Toes
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A hammer toe bends down toward the floor at the middle toe joint. This causes the middle toe joint to rise up (which can rub agains the top of the shoe).
If you notice that your toe looks odd or hurts, contact us. The longer you wait, the higher the likelihood that surgical action is required.
Tight shoes are the most common cause of Hammer Toes. Wearing tight shoes can cause the toe muscles to get out of balance over time. If a shoe forces a toe to stay in a bent position for too long, the muscles tighten and the tendons contract. This makes it harder to straighten the toe and ultimately the toe muscles can't straighten.
