4 Hammertoe Treatments

The hammertoe deformity affects the four small toes causing one or more of them to bend downward at the middle joint. While the condition may not be painful initially, as it progresses the bending will continue, and painful corns can develop on top of the bend. While a primary reason for experiencing this problem is genetic, wearing poorly fitted shoes that are too tight can exacerbate this tendency.

4 treatments for hammertoes may include the following:

1. Orthotic inserts and padding—Custom orthotic inserts perfectly sized and formulated by your foot doctor can be used to cushion the bent toe and help correct the tendon imbalances that are contributing to the problem. A variety of pads and insulators are used to isolate the hammertoe and help prevent rubbing on the inside of your shoes.
2. Wear properly fitted shoes with a wide toe box—Get your feet measured and have a computerized gait analysis done. Wearing shoes with a wider toe box will provide extra room for toe bumps to help prevent the formation of painful corns.
3. Medication for relief of pain and swelling—Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be taken orally to help reduce pain and swelling.
4. Physical therapy exercises—A variety of flexing and strengthening exercises for the toes can help correct the tendon imbalance.

The optimal time to treat hammertoes with conservative methods is in the early stages when they still have some flexibility. Hammertoes that are badly bent and rigid may require surgery by your foot doctor. The foot experts at Desert Podiatric Medical Specialists, in the Tucson, Oro Valley, and Green Valley areas of Pima County Arizona, have unparalleled experience in treating all aspects of foot and ankle care. Our team of doctors, including Christopher M. Funk, D.P.M., FACFAS, Bradley A. Whitaker, D.P.M., FACFAS, and Peter C. Merrill, D.P.M., AACFAS, is dedicated to serving you with state-of-the-art, cutting edge medical technologies including the PinPointe FootLaser, custom fitted orthotics, and Radial Pulse Therapy (RPT) for chronic foot, heel, or ankle pain. If you have any questions or would like to make an appointment, please call (520) 575-0800.