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Hammer Toes

Hammertoe describes an abnormal bend in the middle joint of the center three toes. Board-certified podiatrist Andrew McCall, DPM, FACFAS, of Alpine Foot and Ankle in Idaho Falls, ID and Alpine, WY, provides conservative and surgical treatment for problematic hammertoe. Call the office today or use this website to book an appointment if you have this painful condition to help you regain comfort and mobility.

Hammer Toes Q & A

What is hammertoe?

Hammertoe describes a contracture in the middle joint of a toe. It usually affects the middle three toes. While many people experience no problem due to hammertoe, others can develop foot pain or discomfort while wearing shoes or while walking and running. 

Another condition, known as mallet toe, affects the highest joint closest to the toenail.

How do I know if I have a hammertoe?

If you have a hammertoe, you’ll notice an abnormal bend in one of your middle toe joints. Pain can also develop, especially when you wiggle the toe or wear shoes. Corns and calluses often develop on top of the toe, where the joint rubs against your shoes. 

Contact Alpine Foot and Ankle if you suspect you have hammertoe. The condition will not resolve on its own and is likely to worsen without treatment.

What causes hammertoe?

Hammertoe usually results from an imbalance in the soft tissues that keep your toe aligned straight. If you repeatedly wear tight or narrow shoes in the toe box, you can cause this imbalance to develop in the tendons, muscles, and ligaments. Some people are also genetically predisposed to an imbalance in the soft tissues.

Your risk of developing hammertoe rises as you age or if you experience a stubbed or broken toe. People with arthritis or diabetes or those who have a longer second toe as compared to the big toe are also at greater risk. 

How do you treat hammertoe?

Hammertoes are flexible at first and respond well to conservative treatments. Your customized treatment plan may include:

  • Changes in footwear
  • Using foot orthotics
  • Padding corns and calluses
  • Splinting or strapping the toe
  • Exercises to stretch and strengthen your foot muscles
  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to relieve pain

Over time, however, hammertoes become less flexible and even rigid. In these cases, you may need surgery to correct them. Dr. Mccall may recommend one of several procedures, including tendon lengthening, tendon transfer, or joint fusion surgery.

Understanding Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a common foot deformity that affects the joints of the toes, causing them to bend or curl downward, resembling a hammer. This condition can lead to pain, difficulty walking, and increased risk of corns and calluses. It often results from an imbalance in the muscles and tendons that control toe movement, making it crucial to address the issue early to prevent further complications.

Personalized Treatment Plans

At Alpine Foot & Ankle, we tailor our approach to each patient's unique needs, offering a range of treatment options to address hammertoe effectively:

  • Conservative Treatments: We begin with non-surgical options such as custom orthotics, toe splints, and physical therapy to relieve pain and improve toe alignment.
  • Footwear Recommendations: Our experts provide guidance on selecting appropriate shoes that accommodate toe deformities and reduce discomfort.
  • Advanced Therapies: For persistent cases, we offer advanced treatments, including corticosteroid injections and minimally invasive procedures designed to correct toe positioning and alleviate symptoms.
  • Surgical Solutions: If conservative treatments are not sufficient, our skilled surgeons can perform corrective surgery to straighten the affected toe and restore proper function.

Why Choose Alpine Foot & Ankle?

Our team at Alpine Foot & Ankle combines years of experience with the latest techniques in podiatric medicine to deliver exceptional care. We prioritize patient comfort and work closely with you to develop a treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and lifestyle. Our goal is to relieve your symptoms, improve your quality of life, and help you return to your daily activities with ease.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

Don't let hammertoe disrupt your life any longer. Contact us to schedule an appointment and take the first step towards effective treatment. For our Idaho Falls, ID office, call 208-826-1270. If you’re in Alpine, WY, reach us at 307-317-8937. Alternatively, you can book your appointment online by clicking here.

At Alpine Foot & Ankle, we are dedicated to helping you achieve pain-free, healthy feet. Get in touch with us today and discover how we can help you overcome hammertoe and enhance your foot health.

Improve Your Hammertoe Treatment Experience with  Nitronox PLUS

Considering hammertoe correction? We now offer  Nitronox PLUS during in-office procedures to improve comfort. This nitrous oxide-based system allows you to feel relaxed and at ease during treatment.

Services

Alpine Foot and Ankle Care specializes in Minimal Incision Surgery techniques, meticulously crafted to minimize scarring and accelerate the pace of recovery. 
Alpine Foot and Ankle
✆ Phone (appointments): 208-826-1270
✆ Phone (general inquiries): 208-529-0229

Address: 
2920 Cortez Avenue, Idaho Falls, ID 83404

9 Sunbeam Drive, Unit D, Alpine, WY 83128 
4.91 / 5 Avg. Rating

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