Hammertoes aren’t just a cosmetic imperfection. If left untreated, they become stiff and rigid, and lead to chronic foot pain. But with the help of expert podiatrists Jarna Rathod-Bhatt, DPM, and Rahul Bhatt, DPM, you can get started on an innovative hammertoe treatment plan at Apple Podiatry Group. Click the online scheduler to book your hammertoe exam, or call the Arlington or Irving, Texas, office to speak with a team member.
Hammertoes are joint deformities that frequently form on your second, third, or fourth toes. The condition usually stems from an issue in your foot mechanics.
For instance, if you have a small toe that’s longer than your big toe — this is common with second toes — it might get scrunched up every time you wear shoes.
Eventually, especially if you regularly wear high heels or pointy shoes, your toe gets stuck in that bent position as muscles and connective tissues get used to this new form. Your risk of suffering from hammertoes is even higher if you have:
Sometimes bunions cause hammertoes, too. If you have a bunion, your smaller toes become crowded by your big toe, and they may have to bend to an abnormal position to make room for your big toe.
Yes. Initially, hammertoes are flexible and can even flatten out simply by switching to shoes with more toe room. But since hammertoes are progressive and worsen over time, it’s important to have an exam at Apple Podiatry Group if you struggle with:
The podiatrists at Apple Podiatry Group also encourage you to schedule an evaluation if your symptoms are so severe that you change the way you walk to avoid putting pressure on your hammertoes. This can lead to secondary problems, including ankle instability and knee pain.
Your hammertoe treatment plan from Apple Podiatry Group is entirely personalized to your condition and the severity of your symptoms.
To help diagnose your hammertoes and rule out related conditions, such as fractures, your dedicated podiatrist may look at X-rays or ultrasound images.
Oftentimes, they can get you started on conservative hammertoe treatments right away, including:
If you have severe toe deformities, like if your hammertoes are rigid, the podiatrists at Apple Podiatry Group may recommend surgery.
Hammertoe surgery is necessary to realign your toe joints, fuse bones together, remove damaged bones or tissues, or make any other essential repairs. This is typically an outpatient procedure, so you can get all of your hammertoes repaired and return home the same day.
Get the hammertoe relief you need with the help of Apple Podiatry Group. Before your hammertoe worsens, book an exam online or call your closest office to schedule.
