Hammertoe is a common foot deformity that affects the toes, causing them to bend or curl downward instead of pointing forward. Hammertoe can be a source of discomfort and pain. Hammertoe surgery is one effective approach for this issue, however, there are non-surgical approaches that can help alleviate symptoms.
In this article, we will explore non-surgical options for hammertoe management, and why you need the services of a foot and ankle doctor, or podiatrist, for this issue.
Understanding Hammertoe
Hammertoe is characterized by an abnormal bending of the toe joints, resulting in a shape resembling a hammer.
Hammertoe may be caused by many factors, such as:
- Muscle imbalances
- Structural abnormalities in the foot
- Wearing ill-fitting shoes
Hammertoe causes pain and swelling. It can also lead to the development of corns and calluses, and the symptoms tend to get worse over time. To avoid severe hammertoe symptoms, individuals should seek help from a doctor who can provide specialized foot care.
How a Foot and Ankle Specialist Can Help
A foot and ankle doctor can create a tailored treatment plan for you to better manage your hammertoe issue. Podiatrists have specialized training and a lot of experience in treating hammertoe. It is a very common foot problem that affects many Americans.
Non-Surgical Approaches
Some treatment techniques a foot and ankle doctor may incorporate into your treatment plan include:
- Toe Exercises
The doctor can guide you through exercises and stretches that target the affected toes, helping to improve flexibility and strength. Simple exercises such as toe stretches and picking up objects with your toes can help improve flexibility and build strength.
- Shoe Modifications
A foot specialist can recommend footwear modifications or prescribe custom orthotic devices to alleviate pressure and promote proper alignment of the toes.
Some modifications for hammertoe management are the following:
- Wearing shoes with a wide toe boxShoes with a wide toe box allow for ample space in the front part of the shoe, giving the toes room to stretch and move naturally. This helps alleviate pressure on the toes and prevent them from being cramped or squeezed together, which can exacerbate hammertoe symptoms.
- Using toe paddingPadding the toe can help alleviate discomfort and reduce friction associated with hammertoe. Various types of padding are available, including moleskin, gel pads, or silicone toe sleeves. These materials provide cushioning and protection for the hammertoe.
- Wearing splints and strapsSplints or straps can be helpful in correcting the position of hammertoes by gently stretching and realigning the affected toes. Splints are typically worn at night while sleeping, while straps can be worn during the day inside the shoes. By applying gentle and consistent pressure, splints and straps encourage the toes to straighten, reducing the deformity caused by hammertoe.
- Medication
Over-the-counter pain medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be recommended to reduce pain and inflammation associated with hammertoe.
- Orthotics
Over-the-counter or custom-made orthotic inserts can provide support and relieve pressure on the affected toes. These inserts can help distribute weight more evenly, reducing pain and discomfort associated with hammertoe.
If you have developed corns and calluses, a podiatrist can safely remove them in their office. It is not recommended that you remove corns and callusesyourself, as it could lead to complications. Furthermore, by visiting a podiatrist’s clinic, you can receive individualized recommendations for any foot and ankle issues.
While non-surgical approaches can be effective in managing hammertoe, severe cases may still require surgical intervention. Your foot and ankle specialist or podiatrist will evaluate your condition and determine the most suitable treatment approach for you. A board-certified foot and ankle doctor can also perform hammertoe surgery.
Hammertoe Surgeons in Warwick and Middletown, RI and Dartmouth, MA
The board-certified foot and ankle surgeons at Foot & Ankle Institute of New England will assess your foot problem and recommend the best treatment plan for you. Our physicians are some of the best hammertoe surgeons in RI and MA, and we use a combination of treatments to give you the best results. We cannot stress enough the importance of seeking early treatment for hammertoe to prevent deformity, and our team will do our best to resolve it without surgery.
To schedule an appointment with one of our podiatrists, call our podiatry office near you or use our online form to schedule your visit. Our podiatry team looks forward to providing you with the best podiatry treatments in Rhode Island and Massachusetts.
