A hammertoe is a toe deformity where the toe is bent downward at the joint, resembling a hammer. This can happen in children because of a congenital disability, wearing shoes that do not fit well, or pressure from a bunion. Buying comfortable shoes with the right size and a wide enough toe box for the toes to spread out is critical. Using a corn pad to protect the hammertoe can help relieve pressure and discomfort from friction within shoes. A child with a hammertoe can also benefit from stretching their toe muscles throughout the day. It is important to treat this condition in children to prevent future foot problems. If your child has a hammertoe, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can provide a plan of treatment to ease pain, correct the deformity, and protect their feet from developing further issues.
Hammertoe
Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Fusion Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.
Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.
Symptoms
- Pain in the affected toes
- Development of corns or calluses due to friction
- Inflammation
- Redness
- Contracture of the toes
Causes
Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible
Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur
Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe
Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe
Treatment
Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it
Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used
Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option
If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Fort Worth and Arlington, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.