Hammertoes...What Are They?

Hammertoes? If you have hammertoes, you need medical attention. Podiatrists specialize in the treatment of hammertoes. These practitioners provide a full range of medical care for problems of the ankles, feet, and lower legs. Regional Foot and Ankle Specialists, which has offices in Turnersville and Pennsauken, NJ, offers treatments for hammertoes.

About Hammertoes

Hammertoes are painful deformities of the toes. The middle three toes are most likely to be affected. This condition causes the toe to bend or curl downward. Initially, hammertoes are flexible, but if not treated promptly, they may become fixed and surgery to straighten the toes may be necessary.

Causes of Hammertoes

The most common cause of hammertoes is wearing narrow shoes that are too tight. The toe is forced into a bent position. Tendons and muscles in the toe tighten and become shorter. Hammertoe is more likely to occur in women who wear high heels or shoes that do not fit well. In some cases, all of the toes are affected.

Symptoms of Hammertoes

Patients with hammertoes may have calluses or corns on the top of the middle joint of the toes or on the tips of the toes. They may also feel pain in their toes and have trouble finding comfortable shoes. At first, they may be able to move the toes. Over time, they will no longer be able to move the toes.

Hammertoes Treatments

Corrective footwear and splinting can help in treating hammertoes. Drugs that reduce inflammation can alleviate your pain and reduce swelling. Sometimes, your Turnersville or Pennsauken, NJ podiatrist will use cortisone shots to reduce pain. Your podiatrist may also give you an orthotic device to wear inside your shoe. This can relieve your pain and keep your hammertoes from getting worse. When the hammertoes are not resolved with the above methods, surgery may be necessary

If you have hammertoes, call Regional Foot and Ankle Specialists at 856-875-8855 now to schedule a consultation in Turnersville, NJ. Call 856-488-5290 now to schedule a consultation in Pennsauken, NJ, Our podiatrist will alleviate your pain and help you get back to a normal, happy and healthy life!