Hammertoe Treatment in New Hyde Park, NY
What are Hammertoes and What Causes Them?
Hammertoes are toes that have changed into a bent position, resembling a hammer. You may develop a hammertoe due to an imbalance between ligaments and tendons. The imbalance causes the middle toe joint to jut outward, resulting in the hammer-like shape. Hammertoes most commonly develop on the second, third, or fourth toes.
Risk Factors for Developing a Hammertoe
You are at greater risk of developing a hammertoe if you wear narrow, pointed shoes. The toes become crushed together and forced into a bent position. Over time, the bent toe shape becomes permanent.
How You Can Achieve Relief from Mild Hammertoe Pain
For mild hammertoe pain, you can try a few simple remedies like these:
- Switching to more comfortable, wider shoes
- Stretching your toes individually to keep them flexible
- Wearing cushions or pads inside your shoes
- Taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatory and pain medication
What to Do for Moderate to Severe Hammertoe Pain
If you have moderate to severe hammertoe pain, that is impacting your ability to wear shoes, stand, and walk, you need to visit your podiatrist, who offers several effective professional treatments for hammertoes, including:
- Toe splints to help realign your toe
- Custom-fit orthotics to correct muscle imbalances
- Custom-fit footwear to correct ligament and tendon imbalances
When You Might Need Hammertoe Surgery
Hammertoe surgery may be recommended to realign your toe and foot. You might need hammertoe surgery if:
- Non-invasive methods haven’t provided relief from hammertoe pain
- Hammertoe pain is affecting your ability to stay mobile
- Hammertoe pain is growing more severe and is interfering with your quality of life
What You Can Do to Prevent Hammertoes
The most effective way to prevent hammertoe development is to wear shoes with a wide-toe box. Wider shoes allow your toes to remain straightened and aligned with your foot.
Want To Know More About Hammertoes and Hammertoe Treatment?
To learn more about the causes, prevention, and treatment of hammertoes, call Dr. Thomas Barbaro in New Hyde Park, NY. His office number is (516) 441-7043. Call today.
