A condition known as hammertoe may often be the result of wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. The type of shoe that is typically worn, which causes this ailment to develop may have minimum arch support and is often too narrow. This generally causes the middle toes to have muscle imbalances, which prompts the toes to bend, and may be unable to straighten. Pain commonly affects patients with hammertoe and corns and calluses may develop on top of the affected toes. This may be a result of the toes rubbing against the shoes that are worn, in addition to the toes becoming swollen and inflamed. If you feel you are afflicted with hammertoe, it’s suggested to speak with a podiatrist as quickly as possible to learn about the correct course of action to treat this condition.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of PA Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.

Symptoms

• Painful and/or difficult toe movement
• Swelling
• Joint stiffness
• Calluses/Corns
• Physical deformity

Risk Factors

• Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
• Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
• Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
• Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe

Treatment

If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Allentown, Easton, Northampton, and Chew Street in Allentown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.