Hammer Toes

Each of the four smaller toes on the foot is similar to the fingers on the hand. There are three phalanges (bones) with interphalangeal joints between them. These bones extend from the metatarsals (the long bones of the foot), and the joint where they are connected is referred to as the ball of the foot. These joints and bones are usually straight. When the smaller toes become bent and prominent, it is called hammertoes.

Hammertoes can be just one little toe or more than one. A blister (bursa) will sometimes develop over the joint. The inflammation that results is called bursitis.

Many things can cause hammer toes to form:

• Trauma (injury or overuse)

• Incorrect fitting shoes

• Increased pull on the toes due to the tendons being overactive.

• Foot motion is too mobile

• Dysfunctional walking mechanics

Patients with other medical conditions are also more prone to developing hammertoes, such as:

• Diabetes

• Neuromuscular conditions

• Diabetes

Women commonly wear tighter and narrower shoes with high heels. The pressure placed on the ball of the foot and make them more prone to developing bunions. Some studies have shown that 95% of patients (men and women) wear the wrong shoe size.

The hammertoe is generally more mobile when a hammertoe develops. If caught early enough, the toes can be straightened. Over time, the joint will become rigid or frozen. If the joint tears or ruptures, the joint will become dislocated, placing the toe at an upward angle.

Pain, redness, swelling, difficulty walking, and development of calluses/corns make the deformity of the toe more than just an inconvenience.

Call 314-355-0074 to begin expert treatment of your hammertoes with Shari L. Kaminsky, DPM PC.