Treatment Options for Hammertoes

Your toes should point straight forward, maybe with a very slight bend at the knuckle. But when the toes bend at up to a 90-degree angle, that’s a foot condition called hammertoes. They get that name because the toe joints start to resemble the head of a hammer. They cause cosmetic problems as well as challenges when you’re wearing footwear. Dr. Edward Orman at Honeygo Podiatry in Perry Hall and Fallston, MD, and serving Baltimore, MD area patients, can help you with your case of hammertoes.

Why Do Hammertoes Form?
Whenever the feet or toes are forced into an uncomfortable position, there is a risk that they will start to conform to that position. The more pressure, the weaker the joints become over time. Hammertoes often develop when the top part of the toes are crowded together from wearing uncomfortable shoes. Patients who have joint or tendon problems due to heredity or arthritic conditions are more at risk of developing this foot condition.

Treatment Options
Hammertoes do not have to be a permanent problem. They can be straightened out with help from with help from Dr. Orman at Honeygo Podiatry in Perry Hall, Fallston and the Baltimore area. Here are some of the most likely treatments:

- Wrapping, splinting, or strapping the feet so that the joints have a chance to heal in a more favorable position.
- An orthotic device that retrains the tendon, muscles, and joints.
- Padding if there’s a corn or callus on the toe.
- Injection therapy with corticosteroids for inflammation and NSAID medications for pain.
- Different choices in footwear.
- Surgical correction to straighten the toe.

An Embarrassing but Manageable Foot Problem
Hammertoes are manageable as long as you are consistent with the therapies recommended by Dr. Orman at Honeygo Podiatry and make certain lifestyle changes. Here are a few ways you can minimize the chance of developing hammertoes again:

- Always wear properly fitting shoes. Avoid shoes that are too tight, like high heels. Also, women who wear sandals or flip-flops that are too small may experience overhanging of the toes, which can weaken the joints.
- Continue to wear prescribed orthotic devices, even after the joints have realigned.
- Take time off your feet for a while, if possible, to help hasten the healing process after treatment.

No More Hammertoes
You don’t have to face the spring or summer season with unsightly hammertoes. Get help from Dr. Orman at Honeygo Podiatry, serving Baltimore County, Harford County and the Baltimore Metro area. Contact the office today.