Common Causes and Risk Factors for Hammertoe

Receive effective treatment for your hammertoe in Indianapolis, Indiana, by working with Dr. Todd Mann and Dr. Kyle Gleeson of AHP Foot and Wound Care Specialists.

How Do Hammertoes Develop?

A hammertoe is a foot issue characterized by a prominent bend in a toe joint. The bend may force the affected toe to curl up and cause other issues such as chronic pain, stiffness, and difficulty wearing shoes. As hammertoes develop, they can also significantly limit mobility.

Living with hammertoes can be a difficult experience for anyone. To address that foot issue effectively, you must first understand how it emerged in the first place.

The fundamental cause of hammertoe is excessive pressure on the toe joint. Sustained pressure on a toe joint can force it into a bent position for extended periods. If the toe joint stays in that position for too long, the muscles and connective tissues that help flatten the toe out may become too tight.

So, why are your toes exposed to excessive pressure?

Ill-fitting shoes are the likely culprits. Tight toeboxes can force your toes to bend and bunch together. 

There are also personal health factors that can contribute to the development of hammertoes. Individuals with flat feet or high arches are likelier to develop toe deformities. Your chances of getting hammertoes are also greater if you have a history of foot injuries. Health conditions such as diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis can also be contributing factors.

Effectively address your hammertoe in Indianapolis, Indiana, by seeking treatment from Dr. Mann and Dr. Gleeson of AHP Foot and Wound Care Specialists.

How Will a Podiatrist Treat Your Hammertoe?

The difficulty of treating a hammertoe largely depends on when the issue is caught.

Hammertoes that are caught fairly early can be treated with exercises. Your podiatrist can teach you exercises designed to strengthen the muscles and connective tissues in your toes. Perform those exercises regularly at home to prevent the unusual bends from becoming permanent.

Footwear changes are also effective remedies for hammertoes. Start wearing work shoes that give your toes more space. If shoes with large enough toeboxes don’t feel supportive, you can request orthotics from your podiatrist. Orthotics can alter the positioning of your feet inside your shoes and provide greater comfort.

Surgery may be necessary if your hammertoe is stuck in its bent position. Podiatrists can perform different procedures to release a tight tendon.

Call (317) 218-4095 and speak to Dr. Mann and Dr. Gleeson of AHP Foot and Wound Care Specialists if you need hammertoe treatment in Indianapolis, Indiana.