| A hammertoe is a
crooked toe that is the result of tendon imbalance. Over time
the tendons in the feet will gradual pull the toes up. It may
take decades for the hammertoes to develop. |
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| Small shoes can
contribute to the development of hammertoes, but most likely
the hammertoes are due to either a high or low arch foot. The
pull of the tendons on the top of the foot will not equal the
pull of the tendons on the bottom of the foot. This will cause
the gradual rise of the toes. Shoes can rub the tops of the
toes and cause irritation and corns. |
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The image to the left shows a severe hammertoe deformity. This hammertoe developed, in part, because of the bunion deformity. The big toe moved under the 2nd toe and pushed it up. The 2nd toe became unstable and eventually crossed over the big toe. This is called a cross over toe. Many people with this deformity will have pain under the 2nd toe joint in addition to pain on top of the second toe. The image below shows the area of pain |
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| On the X-ray above, the hammertoe can be seen, with the contracture at the toe joint. Mouse over to see outline. |
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| The ball of the foot can
be sore and develop calluses from the crooked toes pressing
down. The diagram on the right illustrates the pressure the hammertoe can place on the ball of the foot. Hammertoes develop slowly over time, but pain may come
on quickly and suddenly as a result of a corn or a blister. |
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| Hammertoes pads can help keep the pressure off the tops of the toes. The
pad should have a hole that is placed over the corn or area
of irritation. This helps to disperse the pressure from the
shoe and relieve the pain. Don't use medicated corn pads
on the hammertoes. The medication will not change the hammertoe
and may only irritate the corn. |
Hammertoe cushions can also be used on hammertoes. These pads are placed under
the toes, with a strap that is placed over the toes. With standing and walking, these pads helps to straighten the toes (not permanently - just while walking). This will
take pressure off the tops of the toes as well as limit pressure
on the ball of the foot. |
| Pads and cushions can help to alleviate pain and irritation associated with hammertoes, but will not change the deformity. |
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When conservative care fails and there is considerable pain at the hammertoes, surgery is then recommended. Basic hammertoe surgery involves taking out the joint in the toe
and then straightening the toe. Many times a pin is used to
stabilize the toe. In many cases, the toe joint is fused. Although
the surgery is fairly simple, straightforward and has a relatively
short recovery time of 6 weeks, the toes can remain swollen
for many months. |
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| In some instances, a more advanced procedure must be done to address the cause of the hammertoes. This may involve tendon transfers or bone fusions. Discuss the options with your doctor. |
footcare info > top of page
Disclaimer: The advice on this website is not intended
to substitute for a visit to your health care provider. We
will not be held liable for any diagnosis made or treatment
recommended. Consult your doctor if you feel you have a medical
problem. |
