Hammer Toes

What is a Hammer Toe?

A hammer toe is a toe that is contracted at the PIP joint (middle joint in the toe) and can lead to severe pressure and pain. Ligaments and tendons that have tightened cause the toe’s joints to curl downwards. 

Hammer toes may occur in any toe, except the big toe. There is often discomfort at the top part of the toe that is rubbing against the shoe.

Hammer toes are classified based on the mobility of the toe joints.

There are two types – flexible and rigid. In a flexible hammer toe, the joint has the ability to move. This type of hammer toe can be straightened manually. With rigid toe joints, movement is limited and can be extremely painful. This sometimes causes foot movement to become restricted leading to extra stress at the ball-of-the-foot, possibly leading to pain and the development of other foot problems like corns and calluses

The Causes

Hammer toes result from a muscle imbalance which causes the ligaments and tendons to become unnaturally tight. This may be the result of overly tight shoes which put too much pressure on the tops of the toes. Arthritis can also lead to many different forefoot deformities, including hammer toes.

Treatment and Prevention

Wearing the correct shoe is a very important step in the treatment of hammer toes. When choosing a shoe, make sure the toe box (toe area) is high and broad, and can accommodate the hammer toes. This ensures less friction against the toes. We carry shoes with Stretchable Leather to relieve pressure on the affected area.

other treatments, forefoot products designed to highlight hammer toes, such as toe tips and hammer toes. These devices will help to keep the hammer finger pressed and will provide relief to the forefoot. Twin protectors and gel tips are also recommended to eliminate friction between the footwear and the toe, while providing comfort and lubrication.

Source:FootSolutions

RIVERA FOOT & ANKLE: At Orlando H.Rivera DPM, our priority is to deliver quality care to informed patients in a comfortable and convenient setting. When you have problems with your feet, you need to turn to a podiatrist who listens and responds… an experienced doctor who knows the field and can effectively diagnose and treat your needs… a friendly physician who counsels you on the best ways to maintain and improve your health. Our physician(s) meet all these criteria. Plus, you benefit from a dedicated team of trained professionals who give you the individualized attention you deserve.

 Podiatrist in Houston

Foot and Ankle, Dr. Orlando Rivera, Advanced Foot & Ankle Specialist, Foot and Ankle Podiatry, Houston Foot & Ankle Surgical, Treatment of Foot and Ankle, Foot & ankle specialists, Podiatrist in houston, podiatrist in houston, Orlando H.Rivera DPM, Houston Foot Doctor, Foot and Ankle Surgeon Houston, Ankle and Foot Specialist Houston, Podiatrist Houston, Foot Pain Houston.