What Causes Hammertoes?

Hammertoes typically develop due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, and ligaments that hold the toes straight. Common causes include:

• Ill-Fitting Footwear: Wearing tight or narrow shoes, particularly high heels, forces the toes into an unnatural position.
• Genetic Predisposition: A family history of foot deformities increases the likelihood of developing hammertoes.
• Toe Injuries: Trauma, such as a stubbed or broken toe, can lead to hammertoe formation.
• Underlying Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as arthritis, diabetes, and neuromuscular disorders, can contribute to hammertoe development.

Signs and Symptoms

Symptoms of hammertoes can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Common signs include:

• A noticeable bend in one or more toes
• Pain and discomfort, especially when wearing shoes
• Corns or calluses on the affected toe due to friction
• Swelling or redness around the joint
• Limited toe movement, particularly in severe cases

Treatment Options for Hammertoes

At Reliant Foot & Ankle Specialists PLLC, we offer a range of treatments for hammertoes based on the severity of your condition.

Non-Surgical Treatments
For mild to moderate cases, conservative treatment options can help alleviate symptoms:

• Proper Footwear: Switching to roomier, more comfortable shoes with a wide toe box can reduce pressure on the toes.
• Orthotic Inserts: Custom orthotics help correct foot imbalances and relieve strain on the toes.
• Toe Exercises: Stretching and strengthening exercises can improve toe flexibility and muscle balance.
• Padding and Taping: Applying pads or taping the toe can help reduce friction and prevent further irritation.
• Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs and corticosteroid injections can help reduce pain and swelling.

Surgical Treatment
If the hammertoe becomes rigid and painful despite conservative measures, surgery may be recommended. Hammertoe surgery options include:

• Tendon Release: Cutting or repositioning tendons to allow the toe to straighten.
• Joint Fusion: Removing a small portion of the toe joint to enable proper alignment.
• Toe Realignment: Bone adjustments to restore a normal toe position.

Recovery After Hammertoe Surgery

Most patients recover within a few weeks, although full healing may take longer. After surgery, wearing a protective boot or special shoe may be necessary to aid healing and prevent complications.

When to Seek Treatment

If you are experiencing persistent foot pain, difficulty wearing shoes, or worsening toe deformities, seeking early treatment can prevent complications. At Reliant Foot & Ankle Specialists PLLC, we offer customized treatment plans to restore comfort and mobility.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment:

Address: 800 8th Ave. Suite #336, Fort Worth, TX 76104
Phone: (817) 887-9884

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Hammertoes

1. What is the difference between hammertoes, mallet toes, and claw toes?
Hammertoes affect the middle joint of the toe, mallet toes impact the joint closest to the nail, and claw toes involve all three toe joints, leading to a curled appearance.

2. Can hammertoes go away on their own?
No, hammertoes do not resolve on their own. Without treatment, they can worsen over time and become rigid, requiring surgical intervention.

3. Are there any home remedies for hammertoes?
Home treatments like wearing proper footwear, performing toe exercises, and using orthotics can help alleviate discomfort. However, persistent pain or severe deformities require professional treatment.

4. What types of shoes should I wear if I have hammertoes?
Choose shoes with a wide toe box, low heels, and good arch support to prevent pressure on the toes. Avoid tight, pointed shoes or high heels.

5. How painful is hammertoe surgery?
Most patients experience mild to moderate discomfort after surgery, which can be managed with pain medication. Recovery is typically smooth with proper post-operative care.

6. How long does it take to recover from hammertoe surgery?
Recovery varies depending on the procedure but generally takes 4-6 weeks for mild cases and up to 8-12 weeks for more complex surgeries.

7. Can hammertoes come back after treatment?
While surgery provides a permanent correction, hammertoes can return if risk factors like improper footwear or foot imbalances are not addressed.

8. Do hammertoes always require surgery?
No, early-stage hammertoes often respond well to non-surgical treatments like physical therapy, custom orthotics, and shoe modifications. Surgery is only necessary for severe or rigid cases.

At Reliant Foot & Ankle Specialists PLLC, we are dedicated to providing expert foot and ankle care tailored to your needs. Whether you need conservative treatment or advanced surgical solutions, we’re here to help.

Call us today at (817) 887-9884 to schedule an appointment!