Are Hammertoes Inevitable? A Phoenix Podiatrist’s Take
Hammertoes are a common foot condition where the toes curve downward, resembling a hammer. While they can be a nuisance and sometimes painful, many people wonder if developing them is inevitable.
The short answer is: no, hammertoes are not inevitable. While certain factors can increase your risk, there are steps you can take to prevent or delay their onset.
Factors that increase your chances of having hammertoes:
- Genetics: If you have a family history of hammertoes, you may be more likely to develop them.
- Foot structure: Certain foot shapes, such as high arches or flat feet, can put extra pressure on the toes.
- Poor footwear: Wearing tight, narrow shoes, especially high heels, can force your toes into an unnatural position.
- Injuries: Foot injuries, such as sprains or fractures, can disrupt the balance of the foot and lead to hammertoes.
- Arthritis: Arthritis can cause joint stiffness and inflammation, which can contribute to hammertoe development.
Steps to prevent or delay hammertoes:
- Wear proper footwear: Choose shoes with ample toe room and a wide base. Avoid shoes that are too tight or narrow.
- Take care of your feet: Regularly inspect your feet for any signs of discomfort or deformity.
- See a podiatrist: If you have concerns about your feet or are experiencing pain, consult a podiatrist for a proper evaluation and treatment plan.
- Consider orthotics: Custom orthotics can help correct imbalances in the foot and reduce pressure on the toes.
- Stretch and strengthen your feet: Exercises can help improve foot flexibility and strength, reducing the risk of hammertoes worsening.
Symptoms of Hammertoes
- Pain, especially when wearing shoes
- Corns or calluses on the top of the toe or the joint
- Difficulty walking or standing for long periods
- Stiffness or limited range of motion in the toes
Treatment Options for Hammertoes
The best treatment for hammertoes depends on the severity of the condition and your individual needs. Here are some common treatment options:
- Non-surgical treatments:
- Conservative measures: Wearing wider shoes, using over-the-counter pain relievers, and applying corn or callus pads can help alleviate symptoms.
- Orthotics: Custom orthotics can help correct imbalances in the foot and reduce pressure on the toes.
- Splinting: Splints can be used to straighten the toe and improve its alignment.
- Surgical treatments:
- Arthroplasty: This procedure involves removing the joint at the base of the toe and fusing the bones together.
- Fusion: This procedure involves fusing the joint at the base of the toe to correct the curvature.
- Tendon transfer: This procedure involves transferring a tendon from another part of the foot to the affected toe to improve its alignment.
While hammertoes may seem like an inevitable part of aging, with proper care and attention to your foot health, you can significantly reduce your risk. If you are interested in surgical intervention for hammertoes, Dr. Arya will refer you to a surgical specialist. If you have questions or concerns about hammertoes, don't hesitate to schedule a consultation with us at Arya Foot & Ankle. We have x-ray and ultrasound in-house and we are here during lunch hours, Saturdays, and most of the week. Please visit our site https://www.aryafootandankle.com/ or call the office at 602-309-8788 to book an appointment today! (Image from pexels.com)
Author
Dr. Shylaja Arya
Dr. Arya is the owner of Arya Foot & Ankle, a podiatry practice that serves the greater Phoenix area with same day, Saturday, and lunch time appointments. She is a level 500 yoga instructor, tennis player, dog mom and shoe lover!
