What You Need To Know About Hammertoes

What are Hammertoes? Understanding the Causes and Symptoms

Hammertoes are a common and uncomfortable problem. Fortunately, your podiatrist can help. Dr. Brian Gale at Dakota Foot & Ankle Clinic in Bismarck, ND, provides comprehensive podiatry services, including diagnosis and treatment of hammertoes.

What You Need To Know About Hammertoes

Hammertoes get their name because they are shaped like a hammer. They are caused by an imbalance between ligaments and tendons, resulting in the toe joint to bend outward. Hammertoes are most common on the second, third, or fourth toes.

If you wear narrow shoes, you are at increased risk of developing a hammertoe. Shoes that are too narrow crush toes together, causing toes to bend. High heels contribute to the problem by pushing toes forward, which is why women more commonly develop hammertoes.

Selecting the right shoes can help prevent hammertoes. Remember to wear shoes with a wide toe box, which provides enough room for your toes to move.

For mild hammertoe pain, you may be able to get relief if you:

• Switch to more comfortable, wide shoes
• Stretch your toes individually to maintain flexibility
• Wear cushions or pads inside your shoes
• Take over-the-counter anti-inflammatory and pain medication

For moderate to severe hammertoe pain, you need to visit a podiatrist. Your visit will begin with a thorough examination of your feet and toes. You may also need imaging studies to determine the extent of bone involvement. Depending on the degree of bone involvement and severity of symptoms, your podiatrist may recommend:

• Toe splints to help realign your toe
• Custom-fit orthotics to correct muscle imbalances
• Custom-fit footwear to correct ligament and tendon imbalances
• Surgery to realign your toe and foot

Want To Know More About Hammertoes and Hammertoe Treatment?

To learn more about hammertoes' causes, symptoms, and treatment, call Dr Gale at Dakota Foot & Ankle Clinic in Bismarck, ND. You can reach him in the office by calling (701) 255-3338, so call today.