Frequently Asked Questions
What are hammertoes?
A hammertoe occurs when the muscles, tendons, and ligaments surrounding a toe become imbalanced, causing the toe to bend downward instead of lying flat.
Hammertoes most commonly affect the second, third, or fourth toes and may develop due to:
- Tight footwear
- High arches or flat feet
- Arthritis
- Injury
- Muscle imbalance
What symptoms do hammertoes cause?
- Toe pain or irritation
- Corns and calluses
- Swelling or redness
- Difficulty moving the toe
- Pain while walking or wearing shoes
Symptoms often become worse over time if left untreated.
How are hammertoes treated?
Dr. Harrison evaluates your foot structure and toe alignment using advanced diagnostic tools, including digital X-rays when needed. Treatment depends on the severity of the deformity and your symptoms.
Conservative treatments may include:
- Custom orthotics
- Padding and taping
- Stretching exercises
- Shoe modifications
- Anti-inflammatory treatments
For more advanced cases, surgical correction may be recommended to straighten the toe and restore proper function.
Can hammertoes be prevented?
Wearing properly fitted shoes with enough toe room can help reduce pressure on your toes and lower the risk of developing hammertoes. Early treatment is important to prevent the condition from worsening.
If hammertoe pain is affecting your daily activities, call Andrew R. Harrison, DPM, MS, or book an appointment online today.
