Hammertoe probably conjures up ideas of hammerhead sharks or something having to do with the tool. But, hammertoes are an actual condition that many people have. In most cases, your hammertoes just seem like a characteristic of your toes, but in some cases, they can cause pain and discomfort. If that’s the case for you, here are some options for dealing with it.
What Is Hammertoe?
Simply put, hammertoe makes your toes slightly resemble a hammer. Your toes look like they point downward instead of straight out.
What are the Causes of Hammertoe?
There is no one cause of hammertoe and it can be caused by a variety of factors. Some of the most common factors are genetics, trauma, birth defects, tightened foot ligaments, arthritis, bunions, and even wearing shoes that don’t fit properly or are too small. You may also have a combination of these things. It’s also been shown that women are more likely than men to have a hammertoe. Your risk also increases with age.
Can Hammertoe Be Treated?
Yes! Hammertoe can be treated. Depending on the severity of your hammertoe you have a few different options. If your hammertoe doesn’t seem very extreme and is likely caused by wearing shoes that don’t fit correctly, your treatment might be as simple as buying better shoes with arch support.
It’s likely that if you have hammertoe you also have bunions. If your bunions are causing pain, you may need to purchase over-the-counter bunion relief pads or possibly even consider surgery depending on the severity of your case. We can assess your bunions and hammertoe when you schedule a consultation with us.
Does Hammertoe Require Surgery?
It’s possible you may need surgery for your hammertoe but also unlikely unless you are suffering from other foot-related issues. If you find it hard to move your toes or experience unusual stiffness, you may need surgery. During a surgery like this, we’d reposition your toes, align the tendons, and remove any other issues causing you grief like bunions.
If you have hammertoe and you want to learn more about treatment options available to you, schedule a consultation at (219) 795-3360 today. We’d love to discuss any questions or concerns you may have.
