Hammertoe is a foot deformity in which the affected toes have an upward bend in the center joint. Foot muscle weakness typically underlies this deformity, which most commonly affects the second, third and fourth toes. Hammertoes retain flexibility and can be straightened in the early stages of the disorder. As the deformity progresses, the toes remain fixed in the abnormal position. The severity of the deformity and the level of mobility in the toes affect the choice of treatment for hammertoe.
Orthotics
The American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons notes on the patient information website FootHealthFacts.org that custom-made shoe inserts, or orthotics, can help restore balanced muscle activity of the foot, and may correct hammertoe deformities. This treatment approach may be helpful for people who retain flexibility in the affected toes.
Footwear
Changes in footwear can help relieve the symptoms of hammertoe. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons advises that the shoes should be at least one-half inch longer than the longest toe of the foot, which may be the big toe or the second toe. Footwear with roominess in the toe box avoids pressure on the toe joints. Shoe repair shops can often stretch the toe box area of shoes to provide extra room. Avoiding shoes with a narrow toe box that force the toes into a contorted position helps prevent progression of hammertoe deformities. Shoes with high heels that push the toes forward should be avoided.
Toe and Foot Stretching and Strengthening
Toe and foot strengthening and stretching may reverse the early stages of hammertoe deformity. InteliHealth.com, in collaboration with the faculty of Harvard Medical School, advises soaking the feet daily in warm water and regularly stretching and flattening the toes. Stretching the toes and ankles by repetitively pointing the foot and toes can help restore or maintain flexibility. Actively curling and releasing the toes can strengthen the muscles. Placing a towel or small object on the floor and grasping it with the toes is a simple toe exercise. Doctors and physical therapists may advise additional stretching and strengthening exercises.
Splinting
A splint that holds the toe in a normal position may straighten a hammertoe that retains joint flexibility, advises the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. This method of treatment is often combined with exercises and a change in footwear.
Surgery
A fixed hammertoe deformity may require surgical correction, notes the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. The objective of surgery is to relieve tension on the tendons and ligaments of the affected joint, allowing the toe to resume a normal position. The surgical procedure varies according to the severity of the deformity.
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