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(407) 523-9993
info@westorangepodiatry.com
(407) 523-9993
West Orange Podiatry
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Hammertoes

a man with hammertoes sitting on his bed

Hammertoes Specialists in Ocoee, FL

Hammertoes are a joint abnormality that causes one (or several) toes to stay bent in a hammerhead-like position. Without early intervention and treatment, your joints can lock, affecting your mobility and quality of life. At West Orange Podiatry, expert podiatrist Michael Laliberte, DPM, offers conservative, minimally invasive treatments for hammertoes. To make an appointment at the practice in Ocoee, Florida, call the office today or schedule online.

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FAQ's About Hammertoes

What are hammertoes?

A hammertoe is a progressive, degenerative joint condition. It causes the middle joint in one or more toes to stay bent instead of lying flat. If you have a hammertoe, you might also notice a corn or callus forming on the top. These growths occur due to friction caused by your shoes or socks.

What are the symptoms of hammertoes?

Symptoms of hammertoes include:

  • A rigid toe joint.
  • Swelling at your joint.
  • Pain in the ball of your foot.
  • Redness, inflammation, or a burning sensation.
  • Corns or calluses on your toe.

 

Over time, a hammertoe might also affect your mobility, making it difficult to walk, stand, or exercise.

What are the types of hammertoes?

Hammertoes fall into three distinct categories:

Flexible hammertoes

If you’re still able to wiggle your affected toe, you have a flexible hammertoe. If you develop a flexible hammertoe, make an appointment with Dr. Laliberte right away. Flexible hammertoes are the easiest type to treat.

Semi-rigid hammertoes

A semi-rigid hammertoe causes your toe to become stiff but still allows for a limited range of motion.

Rigid hammertoes

If you have a rigid hammertoe, your toe stays locked in a bent position. This type of hammertoe occurs when the tendons and other soft tissues in your toe tighten.

What causes hammertoes?

Researchers aren’t entirely sure what causes hammertoes, but it’s thought that wearing tight, uncomfortable, or ill-fitting shoes increases your risk. If you’re unable to wiggle your toes when you put on your shoes, consider investing in a pair with a larger, more open toe box.

Other factors that may increase your risk of a hammertoe include genetics, neuromuscular diseases like diabetes, and trauma. For example, you’re more likely to develop a hammertoe if you drop a heavy object on your foot.

How are hammertoes diagnosed?

To diagnose a hammertoe, Dr. Laliberte physically examines your feet and toes. He gently moves each of your affected toes to test their range of motion and overall flexibility. If you have diabetes, Dr. Laliberte conducts several additional tests to see if a neurological imbalance is responsible.

How are hammertoes treated?

At West Orange Podiatry, Dr. Laliberte uses conservative treatments to manage hammertoes, including:

  • Shoe inserts.
  • Custom orthotics.
  • Over-the-counter pain medication.
  • Corticosteroid injections.
  • Taping.
  • Insulated padding.

 

If conservative measures don’t provide adequate relief, Dr. Laliberte might recommend surgery. During hammertoe surgery, Dr. Laliberte releases your tendon and inserts a steel pin to correct the alignment of your toe.