Hammertoe and mallet toe are deformities that affect the joints of the toes, causing them to bend abnormally. Hammertoe involves a bend in the middle joint, while mallet toe affects the joint closest to the tip. These conditions are often caused by muscle imbalance, arthritis, trauma, or wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes. Symptoms include pain, stiffness, corns or calluses, and difficulty in moving the toe. The affected toe may appear bent downward and feel sore when walking or wearing shoes. A podiatrist can diagnose hammertoe or mallet toe through a physical examination and imaging tests, such as X-rays. Treatment options vary based on severity, and may include custom orthotics, shoe modifications, or splinting. In more advanced cases, surgical correction may be necessary to realign the joint. Early intervention can prevent the condition from worsening. If you notice changes in the shape or flexibility of your toes, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat hammertoe.
Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Arcadia Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.
Hammertoe
Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.
Symptoms
- Painful and/or difficult toe movement
- Swelling
- Joint stiffness
- Calluses/Corns
- Physical deformity
Risk Factors
- Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
- Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
- Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
- Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe
Treatment
If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Scottsdale, North Scottsdale, Mesa, and Sun City, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
