If you’ve noticed a toe that’s bent downward at the middle joint, causing discomfort or difficulty wearing shoes, you might be dealing with a hammertoe. This article will guide you through the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and prevention strategies for hammertoes.
At Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Center in Greater Columbus, we specialize in diagnosing and treating foot conditions like hammertoes. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward relief.
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A hammertoe is a deformity where the toe bends downward at the middle joint, resembling a hammer. This condition typically affects the second, third, or fourth toes. A similar condition, mallet toe, involves a bend at the joint nearest the toenail.
Hammertoes are often progressive, meaning they may start off flexible and become more rigid over time. That’s why early evaluation and treatment are essential to avoid long-term foot problems.
Common symptoms of hammertoe include:
These symptoms may lead to chronic discomfort, especially when wearing tight or high-heeled shoes.
Hammertoes result from an imbalance in the toe muscles that control the toe’s movement. When certain muscles overpower others, it pulls the toe into a hammer-like position. Contributing factors include:
If left unaddressed, this imbalance can lead to permanent hammer toe deformity.
Several factors increase your risk of developing hammertoes, including:
Without proper care, complications may include chronic foot pain, calluses, ulcerations (especially in people with diabetes), and difficulty walking.
If left untreated, hammer toe can worsen and lead to complications such as corns, calluses, and difficulty walking. The pressure caused by the bent toe can cause irritation and pain on the top of the affected toe or the ball of the foot.
If you suspect that you have a hammer toe, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and an appropriate treatment plan. Early intervention can help prevent the condition from worsening and improve your quality of life.
Diagnosis usually involves a physical examination of the foot to identify the bent toe and evaluate movement in the toe joint. X-rays may be used to assess the severity of the hammer toe deformity and to check for joint damage or alignment issues.
Your doctor will also discuss your symptoms and footwear habits to determine contributing factors.
The approach to treating hammertoes depends on how advanced the condition is.
Surgical options may be recommended for rigid hammertoes that do not respond to conservative treatment. These procedures correct the alignment of the toe and relieve pain.
Preventing hammertoes starts with smart footwear choices and foot care:
Caring for your feet now can save you from significant foot problems in the future.
If you’re struggling with a hammertoe, don’t let the discomfort keep you from enjoying your daily life. Our experienced team at Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Center in Greater Columbus offers personalized care for every patient.
From proper diagnosis to treatment and long-term management, we’re here to help restore comfort and mobility. Contact us today and take the next step toward healthier, pain-free feet.
Medically reviewed by Roberto A. Brandão, DPM, FACFAS
