The Importance of Early Hammertoe Treatment
You don’t need to wait until your hammertoe gets worse before reaching out for help. The sooner you get treatment, the better! Read on to learn three reasons early hammertoe treatment is so important.
What Causes Hammertoe and What Are My Treatment Options?
Hammertoes resemble their name and often take the shape of a hammer. The more technical definition is a that can occur for a variety of reasons.
An imbalance in muscles, tendons, and ligaments cause the toe to be deformed. Your shoes, foot structure, and underlying diseases can cause a hammertoe.
At 91桃色视频, PC, we can address your hammertoe condition. Our specialists are experienced in podiatric medicine and can recommend hammertoe treatment options to best serve your needs. New York City patients can visit either of our two convenient locations in Midtown Manhattan and Downtown Manhattan.
What causes hammertoe?
A hammertoe resembles a hammer as the joint sticks out at an upward position.
Most often, hammertoes happen in the second and third toe. You may also have a near the tendon or joint.
Relieving the pain and pressure of a hammertoe may require changing your footwear or wearing shoe inserts. If you have a more severe case of hammertoe, surgery may be your best option.
Types of hammertoes
There are three types of — flexible, semi-rigid, and rigid. Each has a distinct characteristic that can determine which stage of the deformity you are currently in.
A flexible hammertoe is developing, and the surrounding toes are able to move at the joint. This is the early stage of deformity and can often be cured or alleviated with medical intervention.
A semi-rigid hammertoe is when a hammertoe begins to develop. You may notice the toe beginning to stiffen.
Rigid hammertoes can’t move on their own, and the surrounding and soft tissues have tightened.
Treatment options
You’re in luck — hammertoes can be treated! Depending on the severity of the deformity, your doctor can recommend the best .
Surgery
If your pain is severe and impacts your daily routine, surgery may be your best treatment option. Your surgeon removes the bony portion of your toe and realigns the joint. Then they insert a steel pin to correct the toe’s position.
Custom orthotics
Custom can help position your toe to relieve pain. Some patients may benefit from a pad that allows your toe to grip properly.
Taping your toes
Taping your hammertoe to the next toe can provide support and gently force your hammertoe into a normal position.
Adding padding around the hammertoe can decrease pressure and relieve pain. Your doctor may also recommend combining this with an anti-inflammatory medication or cortisone shots.
If you have a hammertoe, or notice a hammertoe developing, it’s a good idea to contact your doctor. Schedule a consultation with 91桃色视频, PC, today. Call our office most convenient to you or book an appointment online to determine what treatment options are best for you.
You Might Also Enjoy...
Why do my toenails turn black from running? Important information regarding causes, treatment, and p
Are black toenails slowing your enjoyment of your runs? You're not alone!
Discover what causes this common runner's issue, how to treat it, and, most importantly, how to prevent it.
5 Invaluable Benefits of Custom Orthotics for Diabetic Foot Care
In observance of American Diabetes Month, let’s talk about your feet! Specifically, how diabetes affects your feet and the five benefits of including custom orthotics in your diabetic foot care routine.
How to Prevent Chronic Instability After a Severe Ankle Sprain
One severe ankle sprain is bad enough, but when you have chronic ankle instability, you’re at risk for more sprains. Read on to learn seven strategies for preventing ankle instability and future re-sprains.
Do Bunions Require Surgery?
Bunions — those bumps that protrude from the base of your big toe — cause nothing but misery, but do they always require surgery? Not necessarily! Read on to learn about the nonsurgical and surgical options for bunions.
How to Stop Your Neuroma from Worsening
A neuroma is nothing short of painful, and if you’ve got one, you’re likely looking for ways to stop it from getting worse. Continue reading to learn five steps for managing your symptoms and what you can do when you need more relief.