Hammertoes

Hammertoes: Understanding and Managing Toe Deformities

Hammertoes are a common foot condition where one or more toes become bent at the middle joint, creating a hammer-like appearance. Over time, this deformity can cause discomfort, corns, calluses, and difficulty wearing shoes.

At Rehab8, our chiropody team provides expert assessment and conservative management for hammertoes. We focus on relieving pain, improving toe alignment, and preventing progression.

1. What are hammertoes?

A hammertoe occurs when the middle joint of a toe bends downward, while the other joints may also be affected. This condition can affect any toe except the big toe and is often accompanied by discomfort, swelling, or pressure from footwear.

Hammertoes can be flexible in the early stages, allowing for some movement, or rigid in more advanced cases, where the joint becomes fixed. Early intervention is key to preventing permanent deformity and related complications.

2. Common causes and symptoms

Causes

• Footwear: Wearing tight, narrow, or high-heeled shoes increases pressure on the toes and can contribute to hammertoe development.
• Genetics: Inherited foot structure, such as high arches or long toes, can increase risk.
• Biomechanical Imbalances: Abnormal gait or uneven pressure distribution can strain toe muscles and joints.
• Medical Conditions: Arthritis or neuromuscular disorders can weaken toe muscles and lead to deformities.
• Injury: Trauma to the toe can result in altered joint position over time.
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Symptoms

• Toe bent at the middle joint
• Pain or tenderness on the top of the toe or at the tip
• Calluses or corns caused by friction with shoes
• Swelling or redness
• Difficulty wearing shoes comfortably
• In advanced cases, limited toe movement

Without proper care, hammertoes can worsen and affect balance, walking, and overall foot function.

3. How chiropody can help

Chiropody focuses on relieving pain, improving function, and preventing progression of toe deformities. At Rehab8, we provide individualized care for hammertoes, including:

Assessment and Gait Analysis

We evaluate your foot structure and walking pattern to identify contributing factors.

Custom Orthotics

Orthotics can redistribute pressure, improve toe alignment, and reduce stress on affected joints.

Footwear Advice

Choosing shoes with a wide toe box and proper support reduces friction and discomfort.

Padding and Protection

Cushions or toe splints can protect the toe from pressure and prevent corns or calluses.

Stretching and Strengthening Exercises

Targeted exercises help maintain flexibility and strengthen toe muscles to support proper alignment.
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Ongoing Monitoring

Regular chiropody check-ups ensure that conservative management remains effective and adjustments are made as needed.

Takeaway

Hammertoes are a common foot condition that can affect comfort, mobility, and foot health. At Rehab8, our chiropody team provides expert assessment, conservative care, and education to relieve pain, support alignment, and prevent further complications.