Hammertoe & Other Foot Deformities

Hammertoe is a deformity that causes your toes to stay curled or flexed downward due to an imbalance between the muscles and tendons in your feet. Over time, the condition can lead to structural and neurological changes to your foot and toes. Shoes that don’t fit you properly or that force your toes into a cramped, narrowed position can aggravate hammertoe and increase the risk of long-term damage.

Other common foot deformities include:

• Adult acquired flatfoot—a painful condition that results from the collapse of the lengthwise arch of the foot.
• Bunions—often affect people with hammertoes.
• High arched foot—places an excessive amount of weight on the ball and heel of the foot when walking or standing.
• Neuropathy—tingling or numbness in the hands and feet caused by damaged nerves. People with neuropathy or diabetes often develop hammertoe deformity.

Diagnosing Hammertoe

We are experts in the diagnosis and treatment of hammertoe.

Signs & Symptoms

Hammertoe is most common in the second toe but may affect other toes as well. Common symptoms of hammertoe include:

• Corns and calluses around the affected toe or toes
• Inability to straighten the affected toe or toes
• Inflammation, redness or burning in the affected area
• Pain that increases with movement
• Pain that worsens when wearing shoes

Diagnosis

Hammertoe is diagnosed with a physical examination. Your doctor may recommend an X-ray to assess the bone structure of your foot and determine the extent of the damage.

Hammertoe Treatment

Hammertoe is a progressive disease and will most likely worsen over time without treatment.

Nonsurgical Treatments

When possible, we offer nonsurgical treatment options for hammertoe, including:

• Anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs)—to alleviate pain and swelling.
• Footwear—with a wide toe base and a low heel.
• Orthotics—to place in your shoes for support or other customized arch support devices.
• Pads—to shield corns and calluses from irritation.
• Splint—to realign the affected toes and hold them in place.

Surgical Treatments

Once hammertoe progresses, you may need surgery to straighten your toes. Surgery may be your best option if you have severe pain or if you experience issues with the skin on top of your knuckle. Surgery to treat hammertoe may include:

• Cutting or transplanting the tendons of your damaged toes
• Fusing your joint to straighten the toe so it doesn’t bend
• Removing pieces of your toe bones