Hammer toes are a common foot deformity characterized by an abnormal bending of the toe joints, causing the affected toes to curl downward into a hammer-like shape. This condition can be painful and may lead to difficulty walking or wearing shoes comfortably. At Our Clinic, we specialize in diagnosing and treating hammer toes, offering comprehensive care to help our patients find relief and regain comfort in their feet.
Hammer toes typically develop gradually over time and can affect any of the toes, but they most commonly occur in the second, third, or fourth toe. The primary causes of hammer toes include:
Muscle imbalance: Imbalance between the muscles and tendons that control toe movement can lead to an abnormal bending of the toe joints.
Genetics: Some individuals may inherit a predisposition to developing hammer toes.
Footwear: Wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes, especially those with narrow toe boxes or high heels, can contribute to the development of hammer toes.
Trauma: Injuries to the toe or foot can cause damage to the toe joints and lead to the development of hammer toes.
The symptoms of hammer toes may include:
Toe pain or discomfort, particularly when wearing shoes or walking
Corns or calluses on the top of the affected toe joints
Redness, swelling, or inflammation around the affected toe joints
Difficulty straightening or flexing the affected toes
In severe cases, the affected toes may become rigid and unable to move
At Our Clinic, we offer a variety of treatment options for hammer toes, tailored to each patient’s specific needs and the severity of their condition. Treatment may include:
Footwear modifications: Wearing shoes with a wide toe box and low heels can help alleviate pressure on the toes and provide room for the toes to move freely.
Orthotic devices: Custom orthotic inserts or pads may be prescribed to help support the arch of the foot and correct imbalances that contribute to hammer toes.
Toe exercises: Performing stretching and strengthening exercises for the toes and feet can help improve flexibility and muscle balance.
Padding and taping: Applying cushioned pads or tape to the affected toes can help relieve pressure and reduce friction, preventing corns and calluses from forming.
Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers or anti-inflammatory medications may be recommended to alleviate pain and inflammation associated with hammer toes.
Surgical intervention: In severe cases of hammer toes that do not respond to conservative treatments, surgical correction may be necessary to realign the toe joints and restore normal toe function.
At Our Clinic, our team of podiatrists, orthopedic specialists, and foot care experts are dedicated to providing expert care for hammer toes. We take a personalized approach to treatment, addressing each patient’s unique needs and goals to ensure the best possible outcomes. Our compassionate team is here to support and guide our patients every step of the way, from diagnosis to recovery.
If you’re experiencing discomfort or difficulty with hammer toes, don’t wait to seek treatment. Contact Our Clinic today to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced foot care specialists. Let us help you find relief from hammer toes and get back to enjoying a pain-free, active lifestyle.
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