If you suffer from hammertoe, which is an often-painful bone deformity, you don’t have to live with chronic pain or limited mobility. At Central Jersey Ankle & Foot Care Specialists in Aberdeen, New Jersey, board-certified podiatrists use advanced hammertoe treatments to ease discomfort and restore your quality of life. Call Central Jersey Ankle & Foot Care Specialists to learn more about hammertoe treatment options or schedule an appointment online today.
Hammertoe is a toe deformity in which the end of your toe bends downward. It occurs because of an imbalance in tendons, ligaments, or muscles that normally hold your toe straight. Hammertoe often affects the middle joint of your second, third, or fourth toes.
If you have hammertoe, you may notice the following signs and symptoms:
Check-in with your podiatrist if hammertoe pain limits your mobility or inhibits you from enjoying your favorite everyday activities.
Anybody can develop hammertoe, but the following factors increase your risk of developing it:
Toe injuries that can increase your risk of developing hammertoe including stubbing, jamming, or breaking your toe.
After carefully reviewing your symptoms, examining your toe, and utilizing X-rays when necessary, your podiatrist might recommend the following hammertoe treatments:
Your doctor may recommend footwear changes by switching from tight, narrow shoes to soft, comfortable footwear. They might suggest orthotics (shoe inserts) or pads that help reposition your toe. Avoid wearing high heels.
Completing stretching and strengthening exercises can help reposition your toe and ease pain associated with hammertoe.
In children, your podiatrist might recommend wearing a splint or manipulating the affected toe to gradually straighten it over time.
Surgery is sometimes necessary to fully restore your toe and its function. You can usually go home the same day as hammertoe surgery, but a full recovery might take weeks or months.
The best way to prevent hammertoe and its complications is by wearing comfortable shoes and seeking treatment early before symptoms become painful. Call Central Jersey Ankle & Foot Care Specialists for an appointment today or use the online scheduler.