Hammertoes are a common foot deformity that can cause discomfort, difficulty walking, and problems with shoes. At St. Louis Foot & Ankle, our experienced podiatry team provides personalized care to relieve pain, correct the deformity, and help you get back to comfortable movement.
What Are Hammertoes?
A hammertoe occurs when one of the smaller toes becomes bent at the middle joint, causing it to resemble a hammer shape. Over time, the toe may become stiff, painful, and difficult to straighten.
Hammertoes most commonly affect the second, third, or fourth toes and may worsen if left untreated.
Common Causes of Hammertoes
Hammertoes usually develop due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally keep the toe straight. Several factors can contribute to this condition, including:
- Wearing tight or narrow shoes
- High heels that place pressure on the toes
- Foot structure issues such as high arches or flat feet
- Bunions
- Arthritis
- Foot injuries
- Genetic predisposition
Over time, these factors can cause the toe joint to become permanently bent.
Symptoms of Hammertoes
Symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the condition but often include:
- A bent toe joint that resembles a hammer
- Pain or irritation, especially when wearing shoes
- Corns or calluses on the top of the toe
- Redness or swelling
- Difficulty moving the affected toe
- Pain in the ball of the foot
If you notice these symptoms, early treatment can prevent the condition from worsening.
Hammertoe Treatment Options
At St. Louis Foot & Ankle, we offer a range of treatments depending on the severity of your hammertoe.
Conservative (Non-Surgical) Treatments
Many patients find relief through non-surgical care, including:
- Custom orthotics to improve foot alignment
- Padding or taping to reduce pressure
- Footwear recommendations with wider toe boxes
- Stretching and strengthening exercises
- Anti-inflammatory treatments
Surgical Treatment
If conservative treatments do not provide relief or if the toe becomes rigid, surgical correction may be recommended. Hammertoe surgery typically involves straightening the toe by adjusting the tendons, ligaments, or bones.
Our specialists use advanced techniques to ensure optimal outcomes and faster recovery whenever possible.
When to See a Foot Specialist
You should schedule an evaluation if you experience:
- Persistent toe pain
- Difficulty fitting comfortably into shoes
- Worsening toe deformity
- Corns, calluses, or irritation that keeps returning
Early treatment can help prevent complications and may reduce the need for surgery.
Hammertoe Care in St. Louis
If hammertoes are causing discomfort or affecting your mobility, the team at St. Louis Foot & Ankle is here to help. We provide comprehensive diagnosis and treatment options tailored to your needs.
📞 Call St. Louis Foot & Ankle today at (314) 596-9670 to schedule your appointment and get relief from hammertoe pain.