Hammertoe deformities

 A hammertoe is a deformity that causes one of your smaller toes—usually the second, third, or fourth—to bend downward at the middle joint, creating a hammer-like appearance. This condition often leads to discomfort and difficulty wearing shoes, and it can worsen over time if left untreated.

At BlueRock Foot & Ankle, we understand how hammertoes can impact your ability to stay active and comfortable. We’re here to help you regain control and get back to doing the things you love most.

• What causes hammertoes?   Hammertoes are often caused by an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that hold the toe straight. This imbalance can result from wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes, genetics, arthritis, or trauma to the toe.

• What are the symptoms of hammertoes?   Symptoms include an abnormal bend in the toe, pain or irritation when wearing shoes, corns or calluses from friction, and difficulty moving or straightening the toe.

• Are hammertoes permanent?   Without treatment, hammertoes can become fixed in their bent position. Early intervention can help manage symptoms and prevent progression.

• How are hammertoes diagnosed?   A physical exam and X-rays are typically used to assess the severity of the deformity and determine the best course of treatment.

• Do hammertoes always require surgery?   No, many hammertoes can be managed with non-surgical treatments, especially when caught early.

At BlueRock Foot & Ankle, our approach begins with conservative, non-surgical options to relieve pain and improve mobility. Here’s how we can help:

• Footwear changes: Wearing shoes with a wide toe box and avoiding high heels can reduce pressure on the toes.

• Toe exercises: Simple exercises, such as toe stretches or picking up small objects with your toes, can help strengthen the surrounding muscles.

• Orthotics: Custom-made shoe inserts can provide support and correct imbalances that contribute to hammertoes.

• Padding and taping: Cushions and medical tape can protect the toe, reduce friction, and provide temporary relief from pain.

• Medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications can help manage discomfort.

Our goal is to relieve your symptoms and help you stay active without surgery whenever possible.

If non-surgical treatments are not effective and the hammertoe becomes fixed or painful, surgical correction may be necessary. At BlueRock Foot & Ankle, we offer a range of surgical options tailored to your needs:

• Tendon release or transfer: Adjusting tendons to straighten the toe.

• Joint resection: Removing part of the joint to allow the toe to lay flat.

• Fusion: Fusing the joint to permanently straighten the toe.

We’ll work closely with you to determine the best approach and ensure a smooth recovery process.

Untreated hammertoes can sometimes lead to additional foot problems, including cross-over toe deformity and injuries to the plantar plate.

• Cross-Over Toe Deformity occurs when one toe begins to drift over or under an adjacent toe, often due to instability in the ligaments and tendons that support the toe. This condition is frequently linked to hammertoes and can cause significant discomfort and difficulty finding comfortable footwear.

• The Plantar Plate is a thick ligament beneath the ball of your foot that helps stabilize your toes. Prolonged pressure and deformity from a hammertoe can damage this structure, leading to pain in the ball of the foot, swelling, and instability in the affected toe. A damaged plantar plate can make it increasingly difficult to walk or stay active.

At BlueRock Foot & Ankle, we take a proactive approach to prevent these complications by addressing hammertoes early. If you’re already experiencing symptoms of cross-over toe or plantar plate issues, we offer both non-surgical and surgical solutions to restore stability and comfort.

Dr. Jason Rockwood brings advanced expertise and a patient-centered approach to every case. Whether you’re seeking non-surgical relief or considering surgical correction, we’re dedicated to helping you achieve your goals and regain pain-free mobility.