Hammertoe is a contracture (bending) deformity of one or both joints of the second, third, fourth or fifth (little) toes. This abnormal bending can put pressure on the toe when wearing shoes, causing problems to develop.

Because of the progressive nature of hammertoes, they should receive early attention. Hammertoes never get better without some kind of intervention.

The most common cause of hammertoe is a muscle/tendon imbalance. This imbalance, which leads to a bending of the toe, results from mechanical (structural) or neurological changes in the foot that occur over time in some people.

Hammertoes may be aggravated by shoes that do not fit properly. A hammertoe may result if a toe is too long and is forced into a cramped position when a tight shoe is worn. Occasionally, hammertoe is the result of an earlier trauma to the toe. In some people, hammertoes are inherited.

There is a variety of treatment options for hammertoe. The treatment your foot doctor selects will depend on the severity of your hammertoe and other factors.

In some cases, usually when the hammertoe has become more rigid and painful or when an open sore has developed, surgery is needed.

In selecting the procedure or combination of procedures for your particular case, your foot and ankle doctor will take into consideration the extent of your deformity, the number of toes involved, your age, your activity level and other factors. The length of the recovery period will vary, depending on the procedure or procedures performed.

Here at Dearborn Foot and Ankle, we are specialized in the treatment of a wide variety of foot and ankle conditions.

Come see us, we will be happy to go over your treatment options.

Contact us today for an appointment or to learn more.