What Are Hammertoes and How Are They Treated?

Hammertoes are a common foot condition that can cause pain, stiffness, and deformity over time. At the office of Dr. John J. Hickey in Levittown, NY, patients receive expert care for hammertoes and related foot concerns. Understanding what causes hammertoes and how they can be treated helps prevent complications and restore comfortable movement.

Knowing Hammertoes

A hammertoe is a deformity resulting from an abnormal bending of the middle joint of one of your toes, most often the second, third, or fourth toe. The joint becomes rigid over time, forming a toe that points downward instead of lying flat on the ground. It may start as a mild condition, but if left untreated, hammertoes can worsen and lead to more serious issues.

What Causes Hammertoes?

Numerous reasons may cause hammertoes to develop. Poorly fitting shoes, particularly those that have a narrow or tight toe box, will force the toes into a curved position. Over time, the muscles and tendons of the toe may be unable to straighten the joint. The remaining causes include hereditary foot structure, arthritis, and past trauma or injuries to the toes.

Symptoms to Watch For

The most obvious symptom of a hammertoe is the visible bending of the middle joint of the toe. Patients often report pain, especially with shoe wear, along with swelling, redness, or the development of corns and calluses. As the condition worsens, it may become difficult to walk or find shoes with a comfortable fit.

Treatment Options

For many patients, conservative treatments can offer relief. Padding and cushioning the affected toe can reduce pressure and friction. Custom orthotics may help correct alignment and support proper foot function. Wearing shoes with a wide toe box and low heels can also reduce symptoms and prevent the condition from worsening.

In more advanced cases, when the toe becomes rigid or conservative treatments are no longer effective, surgical intervention may be recommended. Procedures can vary depending on the severity but often involve realigning the bones, tendons, or joints to restore normal toe function.

Get Expert Care for Your Feet

Early treatment of hammertoes can prevent pain from becoming chronic and help maintain mobility. For expert diagnosis and personalized treatment options, schedule an appointment with Dr. John J. Hickey in Levittown, NY, by calling (516) 735-4545.