Risk Factors for Hammer Toes

Hammer toe is a condition that causes the toes to bend downward in the shape of a hammer. It most often affects the second, third, or fourth toes, and can cause pain and discomfort. Treatment is needed to correct the problem. Dr. Asif Shah and Dr. Ehsan Khan, the board certified podiatrists at New Age Foot & Ankle Surgery in Richmond, VA, treat hammer toes. 

Hammertoe Symptoms

The primary sign of hammer toe is having toes that are bent downward at the middle joint so that the toes resemble the shape of a hammer. Other signs and symptoms of hammer toe include:

• Rigid or stiff toe joints 
• Swelling of the toe joints
• Pain in the ball of the foot
• Diminished flexibility in the toes
• Calluses or corns on the toe joints
• Pain and discomfort 
• Burning sensation
• Redness

Hammertoe Causes and Risk Factors

One common cause of hammer toe is an imbalance between the muscles, ligaments, and tendons in the toes. The imbalance can result in dislocation of the toe joint, which causes the toe to bend downward in a hammer-like position. 

Several factors can also increase the risk of developing hammer toe. Risk factors for the condition include:

• An injury to the feet or toes 
• Wearing extremely tight or narrow shoes 
• Wearing shoes without sufficient arch support
• The second toe extends past the big toe
• Having arthritis, neuropathy, or diabetes 
• Family history of the condition
• Aging 

Hammertoe Treatments

Hammer toe will not heal on its own so it is important to see a podiatrist promptly. When the condition is treated early on while the toes still have flexibility, it can be successfully corrected with nonsurgical methods. Without treatment, the affected toes could eventually become so stiff or rigid that surgery is needed to correct the condition. Surgery can involve joint fusion, tendon lengthening, or tendon transfer.

At our foot and ankle center in Richmond, VA, hammer toes can be treated using a variety of methods. Treatments options for hammer toes that are still flexible include:

• Toe splints or straps to realign dislocated toe joints
• Custom orthotics to correct an imbalance in the muscles or tendons
• Non-steroidal medications to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation
• Personalized footwear recommendations for shoes that do not cramp the toes
• Protective padding to minimize irritation from corns and calluses
• Exercises for stretching and strengthening the foot muscles

If you are dealing with hammertoes, we can help. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Shah or Dr. Khan to discuss options for treating hammer toes by calling New Age Foot & Ankle Surgery in Richmond, VA, at (804) 934-9340.