Hammertoes Specialist

What are the symptoms of hammertoe?

Hammertoe is a common foot deformity that causes your toes to contract abnormally. If you suffer from hammertoe, you may notice your smaller toes begin to bend instead of pointing straight. Hammertoe is a progressive condition that gets worse over time. 

Although hammertoe typically starts off mild and painless, as the condition progresses, you may notice a number of additional symptoms, including:

• Corns and calluses
• Redness
• Inflammation
• Burning sensation
• Pain when wearing shoes

Hammertoe alters the alignment of your toes and can make it difficult to wear normal shoes. As your toes rub against the shoe, corns and calluses tend to develop in between the toes and on the ball of the foot. In severe cases, hammertoe can cause open sores to develop on your foot. 

Am I at risk of developing hammertoe?

Hammertoe is typically caused by an imbalance to the muscles and tendons in your foot. A number of issues can contribute to this imbalance. For some people, their inherited foot type puts them at a higher risk of developing hammertoe. 

Other issues like wearing tight-fitting shoes or high heels can lead to hammertoe. In some cases, hammertoe is caused by previous trauma to the foot. If you suspect hammertoe, the team at Godoy Foot & Ankle Center can determine the right treatment for you. 

What treatments are available for hammertoe?

Treating your hammertoe depends on your symptoms and the severity of your deformity. During the early stages, hammertoe is typically treated using conservative methods. 

Godoy Foot & Ankle Center specializes in conservative care and offers nonsurgical treatments, including:

• Padding
• Orthotics
• Splints
• Therapeutic exercises
• Footwear changes

The goal of conservative treatment is to relieve your pain and slow down the progression of your hammertoe. During your visit, your podiatrist works with you to develop the most effective treatment plan for your condition. 

Will I need surgery for a hammertoe?

If your hammertoe is in the advanced stages or doesn’t improve with conservative treatment, you may need surgery. During the advanced stages, hammertoe causes your toes to become stiff, rigid, and painful. 

The team at Godoy Foot & Ankle Center has extensive experience providing both nonsurgical and surgical treatment for hammertoe and can determine the best procedure for you. To schedule your visit, book an appointment by phone or online today.