What are hammertoes?
Hammertoes are an aptly named condition in which the joints in your toes — typically your second, third, fourth, and even the little toe — contract upward, creating a hammer-like appearance.
Hammertoes are progressive — in the beginning, you can push the joint down to straighten your toe. But given time and left untreated, they continue to contract upward and become frozen in the bent position, and even the strongest pressure is unable to straighten your toe.
On top of this, painful corns or calluses can develop on the top of these contracted joints, further adding to the discomfort that hammertoes can cause.
What causes hammertoes?
Hammertoes are created by an imbalance of the muscles and tendons in your toes, which is typically brought about by:
- Pointy shoes
- Heels that force your toes forward into cramped areas
- An inherent imbalance in your connective tissue
- Trauma, such as stubbing or breaking your toe
- Pre-existing diseases like arthritis or diabetes
As well, if your second toe is longer than your big toe, you’re more vulnerable to developing a hammertoe.
How are hammertoes treated?
When you come in to see Dr. Matey, he assesses the degree of contracture to come up with the best treatment plan. In their early stages, Dr. Matey can treat hammertoes using a more conservative approach that includes:
- Orthotics
- Padding or splints
- Changes in footwear
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Physical therapy
More often than not, a combination of these efforts can be very effective at halting — and even reversing — your hammertoe. But the key is early intervention, which is why making an appointment with Dr. Matey at the first signs of a hammertoe is an excellent idea.
If your hammertoes are beyond these measures, or they continue to progress despite these treatments, Dr. Matey may recommend a surgical option to release the tendon that’s holding your toe. He performs this procedure on an outpatient basis with an eye toward a quick recovery.
For expert treatment of your hammertoe, call one of the three Florida Foot and Ankle locations or use the online scheduling tool to set up an appointment.
