Hammertoe is a common and progressive foot condition that can cause significant discomfort. Although symptoms may be mild at first, they can worsen over time and become difficult to manage. Recognizing the signs of the condition early on can alert you to see a podiatrist for prompt treatment, so learn more below.

What You Need to Know About Hammertoe

What is it?

When the joint in the second, third, fourth, or fifth toe bends and takes on a claw-like appearance, it's known as hammertoe. This positioning puts undue strain on the affected toe's tip when you walk, causing it to worsen with time.

What causes it?

This issue usually arises when there's an imbalance between the muscles and tendons that allow your toes to flex and extend naturally. Sometimes this develops due to genetics, but it can also occur if you wear shoes that don’t fit well. Injuries, arthritis, and high or low arches can also cause hammertoe, as can other foot concerns that put pressure on the toes, such as bunions and tight ligaments.

What are the symptoms?

In the early stages, the difference in appearance may be so mild that you might not notice it. However, the longer the condition is left untreated, the worse it'll become. The affected toe will begin to hurt when you walk, and you might develop calluses or corns on the affected toe due to repeated friction between the skin and shoe. Burning and inflammation are also common, and when the problem is aggravated, open sores can develop.

How is it treated?

To determine the degree of your hammertoe, a podiatrist might manipulate your foot to produce symptoms. Analyzing this can help them identify the severity and select the right course of treatment. Non-surgical methods, such as wearing comfortable shoes with plenty of wiggle room or using orthotics, may help in some cases. However, surgical intervention might be necessary if an open sore occurs or if the pain is constant and doesn't improve after conventional treatment methods.
 

If you think you may have hammertoe, visit High Point Foot Center in North Carolina. Proudly serving patients for nearly 20 years, this experienced team offers compassionate and reliable care in a comfortable setting. Visit their website to find out how they can resolve your discomfort, or call (336) 882-2070 to schedule an appointment.