If you’re developing a hammertoe, there are plenty of treatment options available to restore your foot to its normal, healthy condition. Dr. Iliya Beylin helps patients from in and around Plantation and Coral Springs, Florida, to realign their toes and avoid calluses, corns, and other painful side effects of hammertoes. Call or book an appointment online to meet with Dr. Beylin at, Foot and Ankle Associates of South Florida.

What is a hammertoe?

Hammertoes are common deformities that develop on your second, third, or fourth toe. Your toe bends and curls due to muscular weakness and its shape resembles a hammer. Hammertoes are painful, especially as the deformity becomes more pronounced. When left untreated, the condition can become worse and end up requiring more invasive treatment. 

How do I know if I’m developing a hammertoe?

One of the first signs of a hammertoe is a corn or callus developing on the top of one of your toes. Hammertoes typically develop on the second, third, and fourth toes.

Hammertoes also hurt when you put on shoes that put pressure on the tops of your toes. You might notice that the joint on your toe is swollen or red. You might also experience pain on the ball of your foot, where the affected toe joins it.

What causes hammertoes?

There is a genetic link to your likelihood of developing hammertoes. Hammertoes are also caused by improperly fitting shoes and muscle imbalance. For example, Ill-fitting shoes or shoes with high heels that put pressure on your toes can cause hammertoes. Arthritis can not only lead to the development of hammertoes but also aggravates the condition, causing more pain.

Your toes work together to keep you balanced and to help you walk or run. Any excessive pressure can push the other toes out of joint and lead to hammertoes.

How are hammertoes treated?

Like most podiatric conditions, hammertoe treatment begins conservatively. Dr. Beylin suggests that you change your shoes to comfortable, supportive styles with plenty of space in the toe box. Custom orthotics may also help to correct the muscle imbalance that led to your hammertoe. Over-the-counter foot care devices like straps, cushions, and corn pads can also provide relief.

If your hammertoe doesn’t respond to these conservative treatments, Dr. Beylin may suggest surgery. If surgery is necessary, it’s usually a relatively quick in-office procedure where Dr. Beylin removes a small piece of bone to realign your toe.

If your hammertoe deformity is more severe, your surgery may prove more complex. Dr. Beylin provides comprehensive consultations for determining the best course of treatment for your hammertoe, including any surgical intervention.

If you think you're developing a hammertoe, call or make an appointment online today to get treatment before your condition becomes more severe.