If any of your small toes have started to bend severely at the middle joint then you probably have a condition known as hammertoe. At the beginning stages of this abnormality the pain and discomfort are frequently minimal but as the condition progresses and the toes become even more bent they will start to hurt. Additionally, corns and blisters can affect the top of the bent section causing further distress.
While hammertoe development has a hereditary component, it can be exacerbated by wearing the wrong shoes, arthritic conditions, and having untreated flat feet. Stubbing your foot or dropping a heavy object on your toes can also increase the severity of hammertoes.
5 great treatments for hammertoes include the following:
- Orthotic inserts – These treat a wide variety of complications including helping to control the tendon imbalance that contributes to the toe bending abnormally.
- Splints and braces – A splint or brace can be worn while sleeping to force the toes into the proper position.
- Moleskin pads – These pads can be used on hammertoes and corns to help prevent rubbing and the creation of blisters.
- Pain relief – Ibuprofen or Tylenol may be taken orally or applied directly for pain and swelling.
- Strength and flexibility exercises – Toe strengthening and flexibility exercises like the towel scrunching exercise will strengthen muscles and increase the flexibility of tendons.
If you are experiencing a hammertoe problem see your foot doctor for the proper care. At Family Foot & Ankle Clinic, Dr. Stephen Markantone treats a wide variety of foot and ankle conditions including sports injuries, diabetic foot issues, pediatric foot conditions, toe and foot deformities, fungal infections, and heel problems. Equipped with the most advanced technologies and a dedicated staff, Family Foot & Ankle Clinic provides individualized and high-quality care for patients in the North Versailles and Delmont, PA areas. Contact our North Versailles office at 412-824-9370 or our Delmont office at 724-733-3338 to schedule an appointment.