Serving Utah Valley
Find Relief for Hammertoes
Are your toes starting to look crooked or bent? Are you struggling with pain and irritation from shoes that no longer fit comfortably? You may have a hammertoe, a progressive foot deformity that can cause significant discomfort. At Hoyal Podiatry in Orem, UT, Dr. James Hoyal provides effective diagnosis and personalized treatment plans to correct hammertoes and restore comfort to your feet.
What is a Hammertoe?
A hammertoe is a contracture, or bending, of the joint in one or more of your smaller toes (second, third, fourth, or fifth). This deformity causes the toe to bend upward in the middle, resembling a hammer. While hammertoes are most common in the second toe, they can affect any toe. Over time, the toe can become rigid and permanently bent.
Common symptoms of a hammertoe include:
An abnormal bend in the middle joint of the toe.
Pain or irritation when wearing shoes.
Calluses or corns on the top of the bent toe or at the tip of the toe.
Redness and swelling around the affected joint.
Difficulty walking due to pain.
At-Home Care for Hammertoe Pain
While a hammertoe is a structural issue that won’t resolve on its own, you can manage the symptoms and prevent the condition from worsening with these at-home strategies.
- Choose the right shoes: Wear shoes with a deep, wide, and roomy toe box to avoid pressure and rubbing on the bent toe. Avoid narrow, pointed-toe shoes and high heels.
- Use padding: Over-the-counter cushions or pads can be placed over corns and calluses to provide relief from friction.
- Stretching: Gently stretch the affected toe and use your hands to straighten the bent joint to maintain flexibility, especially in the early stages of the deformity.
- Ice: Applying an ice pack to the affected toe can help reduce swelling and discomfort after a long day.
When to See a Podiatrist
It’s important to seek professional medical attention for a hammertoe if:
- The pain is persistent or severe.
- The deformity is worsening or becoming more rigid.
- You are having difficulty walking or finding comfortable shoes.
- The hammertoe is causing open sores or infections on the foot.
At Hoyal Podiatry, we will perform a thorough examination to determine the severity and cause of your hammertoe. Our treatment options range from non-surgical interventions like custom orthotics and footwear modifications to surgical correction for more advanced cases, providing you with a long-term solution for a pain-free life.
Don’t let hammertoe pain limit your activity. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Hoyal today to get a proper diagnosis and start a personalized treatment plan.
Ready to Find Relief?
Don’t let foot and ankle pain hold you back any longer. Our experienced podiatrists are here to provide personalized care and effective treatment solutions.