Hammer Toe Correction
Hammer toes are a common foot problem. A hammer toe is a condition that affects the joints on your toes. This can be seen in one or more toes at a time. The hammer toe indicates when a joint points upwards instead of lying flat. A hammer toe can be very painful and lead to other foot and ankle problems.
A hammer toe can lead to corn, callouses, and even wounds in patients if they are left untreated. This can be especially dangerous in diabetic patients. Left untreated, a sore can lead to infections and even amputations.
Types of Hammer Toes:
Hammer toes are caused by an imbalance in the muscles, ligaments, or tendons that keep toes straight, and this condition can be extremely painful. There are three types of
hammer toe, and each one varies in severity:
- Flexible. This is where the patient can still move or wiggle the toe despite there being a bend at the joint.
- Semirigid. In this type of hammer toe, the affected toe is semi-flexible but much stiffer than a flexible hammer toe
- Rigid. Finally, this is where the toe is curled and unable to be moved or uncurled.
These types describe the severity of the hammer toe. Often, patients can use pads and other accommodative measures to reduce the pain in a flexible hammer toe. The more rigid they are, usually the more painful they are.
What Causes Hammertoes
The most common cause of hammer toes is shoes, namely, high heels. You will most likely suffer from hammer toes if you wear high heels taller than 2 inches. Also, the time spent in high heels will become a factor.
Genetics, ill-fitting shoes, diabetes, and trauma can also cause hammer toes to form. Hammer toes will likely worsen over time. They will “go away” or get better on their own.
Treatment for Hammertoes
Treatment for hammertoes can vary depending on the pain. For some, conservative, accommodative treatments can alleviate pain for some time. However, this only addresses the symptoms and not the cause.
Surgery is the most common and effective treatment for hammer toes. After surgery, your doctor will likely recommend custom orthotics, proper shoes, and a plan to reduce the time spent in high heels.
While wearing high heels is common, and many women will not easily give it up, you can reduce the time you wear them. Wear comfortable shoes as you travel to work or an event and change once you arrive. Wear heels with a height capacity of 2 inches when possible. Also, consider how long you will be walking in the shoes.
Our Skilled NYC Podiatrist Can Provide Hammer Toe Treatment
In a city like the Big Apple, getting around on foot quickly and comfortably is absolutely essential. And, for many New Yorkers, being able to do it in their favorite pair of designer shoes is equally important. At Central Park SOLE, our esteemed NYC podiatrists offer innovative surgical solutions to restore the health and appearance of the feet, toes, and toenails. Contact us today or visit our office located on the Upper West Side. We would be happy to see and assist you!
