Hammertoe Treatment in Ashland, KY
What are Hammertoes?
A hammertoe is a toe that is bent outward at the middle toe joint, causing the toe to resemble a hammer. Hammertoes are most common on the second, third, or fourth toes.
The Cause of Hammertoes
An imbalance between ligaments and tendons can cause the middle toe joint to protrude outward. Hammertoes can develop from wearing shoes that are too narrow or too tight. The toes are crushed together, causing them to remain in a bent position. High heels increase the risk of developing hammertoes because they push the toes forward.
Steps You Can Take to Prevent Hammertoes
One of the most important steps you can take to prevent hammertoes is to wear shoes with a wide toe box, which provides ample room for your toes to move. You should also stretch each toe individually with your fingers to help maintain flexibility.
Treatments for Mild Hammertoe Pain
For mild hammertoe pain, try a few simple steps to find relief. You should:
- Switch to more comfortable, wide shoes
- Stretch your toes individually to maintain flexibility
- Wear cushions or pads inside your shoes
- Take over-the-counter anti-inflammatory and pain medication
Professional Treatments for Hammertoes
If you have moderate to severe discomfort associated with a hammertoe, or if your hammertoes are affecting your ability to stay mobile, it’s time to visit the podiatrist for professional treatment. Your podiatrist will begin with a comprehensive examination of your feet and toes. You may also need imaging studies to determine the extent of bone involvement. To treat your hammertoes, your podiatrist may recommend:
- Toe splints to help realign your toe
- Custom-fit orthotics to correct muscle imbalances
- Custom-fit footwear to correct ligament and tendon imbalances
- Surgery to realign your toe and foot