When to Seek Treatment for Hammertoe

Usually affecting one or more of the middle three toes, hammertoe is a deformity of the second joint of the affected toe. In most cases, the tip of the toe points down, while the second joint forms a hump. Hammertoe pain ranges from mild to severe, and you may struggle walking. 

The foot and ankle specialists at 360 Orthopedics can diagnose and treat your feet, starting with conservative remedies and ending with surgery if less aggressive treatments fail to provide relief. 

How does hammertoe start? 

Chronic pressure forcing toes out of their normal position contributes to hammertoe. Over time, muscles and tendons in the affected toes start to tighten in response to these cramped conditions. 

Poorly fitted shoes, such as those worn by children when they are outgrown, or high heels that force unnatural toe positions, may be to blame. 

Your foot anatomy can also play a role. Those with high or flat arches may be more likely to develop hammertoe. Toes that are longer than average may also make it difficult to find shoes with a comfortable toe box.

Health conditions that affect your feet can cause hammertoe or increase your risk. Common ailments include bunions, diabetes, and rheumatoid arthritis. Injuries like broken, jammed, or stubbed toes, can also lead to hammertoe. 

When to seek treatment for hammertoe

In its early stages, hammertoe might cause slight toe disfigurement but no other symptoms. This is called flexible hammertoe, and you may still be able to bend and move an affected toe. Treatment is not necessary at this point, but you should discuss ways to stop the progression of the condition. 

Semi-rigid hammertoe begins when your toe becomes more pronounced in curl. While you may still have joint motion, it’s likely restricted. Pain, inflammation, and complications like corns and calluses are more likely to begin at this stage. 

Rigid hammertoe arrives with total immobility of the affected toe. It’s the most severe form of hammertoe and the stage most likely to require surgical correction. 

The time to seek treatment for hammertoe depends on you. The general guideline is when pain and other symptoms make walking difficult or when chronic pain affects your daily living. 

Early treatment can help you avoid more serious symptoms, and with the right care, you may be able to relieve pressure and restore normal toe alignment. Like many other conditions and diseases, early treatment usually requires the simplest treatment, the least inconvenience, and the best prognosis. 

Learn more by scheduling a visit to 360 Orthopedics' nearest location. Call or click to book an appointment today.