If hammertoes are affecting your quality of life, the podiatrists Dr. Sara Bouraee, Dr. Jon Houseworth, Dr. Sun Byun, Dr. Daria Piotrowksi, and Dr. Shruti Vyas at Hampton Roads Foot and Ankle Specialists in Hampton and Williamsburg, VA can help you turn it around.
Guide to Hammertoes
A hammertoe is a condition in which the toe is bent at the joint. It almost appears as if you are attempting to grip something with it. It can occur in the second, third, or fourth toes, but it’s most common in the second. Below are some of the most common questions about hammertoes and how you can overcome the condition.
What Causes Hammertoes To Form?
Your second through fifth toes have a middle joint called the PIP joint or proximal interphalangeal joint. Hammertoe means that this joint is bent constantly. This occurs when something has caused too much pressure on the tendon and joint, keeping the toe in the bent position for too long.
Over time, it becomes too tight to retreat to its normal position. Sufferers can have difficulty walking, develop corns or calluses on the joint as it rubs against your shoes, and swelling.
Can Hammertoes Be Prevented?
Hammertoes are generally a preventable condition, as you simply need to determine what might put pressure on the toe joint and amend it. In most cases, it will involve the shoes you wear. If they are too tight or have too narrow of a toe box, they’ll likely lead to hammertoe. Wearing high heels constantly can do the same.
Some cases of hammertoes aren’t as easily preventable. For example, conditions like diabetes and arthritis can increase your risk, as can genetics and age. If you are properly treating your health condition, though, you can certainly lower your risk.
Injuries might also lead to hammertoes. Therefore, it’s essential that you get proper care for any injuries to ensure the best recovery.
Can They Be Treated?
When addressed early enough, non-invasive techniques are available for treatment. These include targeted stretches, custom orthotics, and adjusting your footwear.
In more severe cases, surgery might be necessary to release the joint. Our team can help determine the best course of action for the severity of your condition.
If you are looking for relief for your hammertoes and live in or near the areas of Williamsburg, and Hampton, VA, you can schedule a consultation with Hampton Roads Foot and Ankle Specialists, with Dr. Sara Bouraee, Dr. Jon Houseworth, Dr. Sun Byun, Dr. Daria Piotrowksi, and Dr. Shruti Vyas, by dialing (757) 220-3311 to reach the Williamsburg, VA, office, and (757) 224-7605 for Hampton, VA.