What Causes a Hammertoe

The term hammertoe refers to a deformity that causes the middle joint of a toe to become bent downward instead of being flat like the other toes. It can affect any of the toes and it can be very painful and can lead to other related, and also sometimes painful, conditions. The good news is that hammertoe is typically very treatable and can often be prevented with the help of your Baltimore, MD, podiatrist Dr. Edward Orman. You can learn more about the condition by reaching out to Honeygo Podiatry in Perry Hall and Fallston, MD.

Causes and Risk Factors

You are more likely to develop hammertoe if you have a family history of the condition or other issues with the structure of your feet, such as unusually high arches.

Arthritis is a disease that affects your joints and that makes hammertoe much more likely to develop.

Other foot problems that can also play a role are bunions, calluses, and corns, these usually occur due to friction against your shoes. Wearing any kind of footwear that forces the toe joints into an abnormal position can also potentially lead to hammertoe.

Hammertoe Treatment

The most noticeable symptoms of hammertoe you can see and feel, toes become bent and it's difficult to flex, stretch, or even wiggle your toes, this is accompanied by discomfort and pain as you walk.

Your doctor can diagnose the condition with a physical exam, although sometimes imaging tests may be necessary. The severity of the condition will determine the treatment, for mild cases, your doctor may suggest physical therapy along with custom orthotics and can recommend appropriate footwear, only severe cases may require some type of corrective surgery.

If you are struggling with hammertoe or a similar condition you can schedule a consultation with your Baltimore, MD, podiatrist Dr. Orman of Honeygo Podiatry, in Perry Hall and Fallston, MD to help manage your hammertoe symptoms. Dial (410) 529-4141 for the Perry Hall, MD, office and (410) 877-3369 for Fallston, MD.