Hammertoes are a common foot condition characterized by an abnormal bending or curling of the toe joints. This deformity can cause pain, discomfort, and difficulty finding properly fitting footwear. At Illinois Podiatry Specialists, our experienced team offers effective treatments to address hammertoes and restore foot function, allowing you to walk and stand comfortably.
The Condition
Hammertoes are a foot deformity that affects the toe joints, causing them to bend or curl downward instead of pointing forward. This can occur in any of the toes, but it most commonly affects the second, third, and fourth toes. Hammertoes can be caused by various factors, including muscle imbalances, structural abnormalities, tight footwear, or underlying medical conditions. Illinois Podiatry Specialists specializes in diagnosing and treating hammertoes, providing effective solutions to alleviate pain, improve toe alignment, and restore foot function.
The Symptoms:
- Toe curling or bending downward
- Pain or discomfort in the affected toes
- Corns or calluses on the top of the affected toes
- Difficulty fitting into shoes
- Inflammation or redness in the affected area
- Limited range of motion in the toes
- Development of sores or ulcers on the affected toes
Possible Causes:
- Muscle Imbalances: Imbalances in the muscles and tendons that control the movement of the toes can lead to hammertoes.
- Genetics: Some people may have an inherited tendency to develop hammertoes.
- Foot Structure: Certain foot types, such as high arches or flat feet, can contribute to the development of hammertoes.
- Improper Footwear: Wearing tight, narrow, or high-heeled shoes can force the toes into unnatural positions, leading to hammertoes.
- Trauma or Injury: Previous foot injuries or trauma can increase the risk of developing hammertoes.
- Medical Conditions: Underlying conditions, such as arthritis or diabetes, can make individuals more susceptible to hammertoes.
Treatment Options:
- Conservative Measures: Non-surgical treatments for hammertoes focus on relieving symptoms and correcting toe alignment. This may involve wearing roomy shoes with a wide toe box, using orthotic devices or toe splints to reposition the toe, performing toe exercises to strengthen the muscles, and applying padding to reduce pressure on the affected area.
- Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), may be recommended to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation associated with hammertoes. In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be administered directly into the affected area to relieve short-term pain and reduce inflammation.
- Physical Therapy: Physical therapy can play a crucial role in treating hammertoes. A qualified physical therapist can guide you through exercises and stretches that target the muscles and tendons in the toes and feet, helping to improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion. These exercises can aid in correcting toe alignment and reducing discomfort.
- Surgical Intervention: When conservative measures fail to provide adequate relief or, in severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary. Surgical procedures aim to realign the affected toes and correct any structural abnormalities. The specific technique employed will depend on the severity of the deformity and the individual patient’s needs.
At Illinois Podiatry Specialists, we conduct thorough evaluations to identify the underlying causes of hammertoes. Through a comprehensive assessment, including a medical history review and diagnostic tests, we determine the root cause and design a personalized treatment plan. Our goal is to provide effective treatment options tailored to your needs.
Schedule Your
Podiatry Consultation
Illinois Podiatry Specialists, led by board-certified foot and ankle specialists, is dedicated to providing personalized and effective treatment options for hammertoes. We understand the unique needs of each patient and develop customized treatment plans based on individual goals and preferences. Take the first step toward finding relief from hammertoes by scheduling a consultation with our expert team. Together, we will determine the best course of action to improve your foot health and enhance your quality of life.
Contact Illinois Podiatry Specialists Today
Illinois Podiatry Specialists Hinsdale
950 N York Rd, Suite 105
Hinsdale, IL 60521
Illinois Podiatry Specialists Glendale Heights
701 Winthrop Ave Floor, Ste. 101
Glendale Heights, IL 60139
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