Hammertoe

A toe that curls at its middle joint is a telltale sign of a hammertoe. At Bosque Foot and Ankle in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Stephanie Parks, DPM, Justin Ward, DPM, and the team have extensive experience diagnosing and treating hammertoes. Whether your hammertoe is a result of muscle imbalances, footwear choices, or other factors, the skilled podiatry team can help determine an effective solution to meet your needs. Call the office or schedule an appointment online today to learn more.

What is a hammertoe?

A hammertoe is a foot deformity that causes the toe to bend at the middle joint. It usually affects the second toe but can also develop in the third or fourth toes. The condition causes the toe to appear claw-like, making it difficult to straighten. As the muscles and tendons supporting the toe tighten and shorten, the toe becomes rigid.

Most hammertoes appear subtle at first, but they bend increasingly over time, creating a more pronounced deformity.

Does a hammertoe hurt?

Yes, a hammertoe can cause pain. The joint itself may feel sore and stiff, while the skin can develop painful corns and calluses due to repeated friction. Along with pain, hammertoes may have the following symptoms.

Swelling

The affected toe may become swollen due to inflammation and pressure against the shoe.

Difficulty with footwear

The deformity can make it challenging to find comfortable footwear, intensifying pain during daily activities.

Limited range of motion

The bent toe may have a reduced range of motion, affecting its ability to move freely.

Inflammation

The affected joint may become inflamed, leading to increased pain and discomfort.

Why does a hammertoe develop?

Hammertoes occur when the muscles and tendons that support the toe become imbalanced, causing the toe to curl. Common risk factors for hammertoes include:

Improper footwear

Shoes that are too tight or have a narrow toe box can force the toes into a bent position. 

Trauma or injury

A toe injury, such as stubbing or jamming, can increase the risk of developing a hammertoe. Injuries that affect the structure of the toe can lead to muscle imbalances.

Arthritis

Inflammatory joint conditions, such as arthritis, can affect the toe joints, contributing to the development of hammertoes.

Nerve or joint diseases

Certain neurological or joint diseases can affect the muscles and joints in the toes, leading to deformities like hammertoes.

Age

As people age, the ligaments and tendons in the foot may lose elasticity, making them more susceptible to imbalances that can result in hammertoes.

High arches

Individuals with high arches may be more prone to developing hammertoes, as the foot structure can create instability and pressure on the toes.

What are the treatments for a hammertoe?

The most effective treatments for hammertoes include:

• Toe exercises and stretches
• Footwear modifications (wearing shoes with wider toe boxes)
• Custom-made orthotics
• Padding and taping
• Corn and callus removal
• Corticosteroid injection therapy
• Physical therapy
• Surgery

Anti-inflammatory medications can also help relieve pain if your hammertoe is advanced. Call Bosque Foot and Ankle or schedule an appointment online today to learn more.