According to the Institute for Preventive Foot Health, approximately 3% of adults have hammer toe or claw toe. The condition affects women more than men. At Hampton Roads Foot and Ankle Specialists, our team of podiatrists Dr. Sara Bouraee, Dr. Jon Houseworth, Dr. Sun Byun, Dr. Daria Piotrowski, and Dr. Shruti Vyas offer the diagnostic and treatment services that you need for hammertoes at our Williamsburg, and Hampton, VA locations.
What Causes a Hammer Toe?
Hammer toe is a condition that develops over time. It is caused by strain on the ligaments, muscles, and tendons of your toe. In most cases, a hammer toe is caused by the shoes that you wear. You are at greater risk of developing a hammer toe if you wear ill-fitting shoes and high heels.
Other factors that may put you at higher risk of developing a hammer toe are:
- Aging
- Foot and toe injuries
- Genetics
- Certain medical conditions, such as arthritis and diabetes
What are the Signs of a Hammer Toe?
The most obvious sign of a hammer toe is a permanent bend in the second joint. Hammer toe may affect one or more of your toes. It is most common in the second toe, but it may also affect your third and fourth toe. Other signs of a hammer toe are:
- Chronic corns or calluses at the second joint
- Pain in the second joint of your toe
- Difficulty walking or bending your toe
- Inability to straighten your toe
- Pain in the ball of your foot
- Toe pain when you wear certain types of shoes, such as high heels and shoes with pointed toes
Can Hammer Toe Be Prevented?
The best way to prevent hammer toe is to wear shoes that fit properly. We also recommend that you limit how often you wear high heels.
How is a Hammer Toe Treated?
Our team of podiatrists offers several options for treating hammertoes at our Williamsburg, and Hampton, VA, locations. Your treatment plan may include home care, such as stretches, new footwear, and orthotics shoes and inserts. For more severe cases, we may recommend surgery to release the pressure on the muscles, tendons, and ligaments of the affected toes.
If you are looking for a qualified specialist for hammertoes in Williamsburg, VA, call Hampton Roads Foot and Ankle Specialists today at (757) 220-3311 to schedule an appointment with one of our podiatrists, Dr. Sara Bouraee, Dr. Jon Houseworth, Dr. Sun Byun, Dr. Daria Piotrowski, and Dr. Shruti Vyas. You can also schedule an appointment at our Hampton, VA, location by calling us at (757) 224-7605.