Are You Dealing With Hammertoes?

How your podiatrist in Baltimore, MD, can help your feet!

If you often wear shoes that cramp your toes, you are well in danger of developing a hammertoe. This condition occurs when the muscles and tendons in your toe lose their abilities to relax, thus causing your toe to be permanently bent and you unable to straighten it.

Luckily, your podiatrist can help if you are struggling with this condition. Read on to learn how Dr. Edward Orman at Honeygo Podiatry in Baltimore, MD, can offer specialized treatment for your hammertoes!

 More about hammertoes

There are a few reasons why you might develop a hammertoe, including:

• Bunion pressure
• A traumatic injury to your toe
• Muscle or tendon imbalances in your feet
• Wearing shoes without enough room for your toes
• High arches, which can cause your feet to press forward
• Degenerative joint conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis

There are some simple tips you can try if you think you might be developing a hammertoe. Remember to:

• Wear open shoes or sandals
• Wear wider shoes so your toes have plenty of room
• Stretch each toe with your fingers every day
• Exercise your toes by trying to pick up items from the floor
• Take over-the-counter anti-inflammatory and pain medication
• Place pads or cushions in your shoes to support your toes and feet

Sometimes, home remedies like those listed above are not enough to relieve hammertoe pain. Don’t worry! Your podiatrist can help by recommending these effective treatments:

• Custom orthotics or footwear designed to correct a muscle/tendon imbalance
• Prescription-strength anti-inflammatory medication to reduce swelling and pain
• Splints and other methods to straighten and realign your toe
• Cortisone injections to reduce swelling
• Surgical treatment for severe cases of hammertoe

Need relief? Give us a call!

Having a hammertoe can make it difficult to even stand or walk without pain. Get rid of the pain of hammertoes by calling Dr. Edward Orman at Honeygo Podiatry in Baltimore, MD! For the Perry Hall office, dial (410) 529-4141, and for the Fallston office, dial (410) 877-3369