Hammer Toe Surgery
Hammertoes are painful joint deformities that develop in your smaller toes. With his expertise in modern hammertoe therapies, board-certified podiatrist David B. Glover, DPM, FACFAS, of Mountain View Foot & Ankle Institute can help. Dr. Glover can treat your hammertoe and help you get relief right in his South Ogden, Utah, clinic. Book your exam online or call and speak with a team member directly.
Hammer Toe Q & A
What causes a hammertoe?
A hammertoe is a deformity that affects your toe joint in a way that you develop a permanent, abnormal bend in the middle of your toe. Usually, hammertoes occur because of an imbalance in your toe muscles and connective tissues.
This issue typically develops over time if any of your smaller toes are longer than your big toe. Each time you slip on your shoes, your toe gets scrunched up and soft connective tissues can’t relax. Eventually, your toe winds up staying in this position as your muscles and connective tissues can’t flatten out your toe.
In some cases though, your chances of developing a hammertoe increase if you have arthritis or toe trauma, including stubbing your toe. Your risk of developing a hammertoe also goes up if you have inherited toe deformities.
Do hammertoes cause pain?
One of the most common complaints hammertoe sufferers report is the painful corns that develop across the tops of their abnormally bent toes. Each time you put your shoes on, your hammertoes start rubbing the insides of your shoes, which leads to uncomfortable corns. Your hammertoe may also lead to:
- Redness or burning
- Inflammation or swelling
- Limited toe joint movement
The chronic discomfort from hammertoes may cause you to start changing the way you walk, too. This can lead to secondary pain-causing issues throughout your feet and ankles.
What is the treatment for bunions?
One of the most common complaints hammertoe sufferers report is the painful corns that develop across the tops of their abnormally bent toes. Each time you put your shoes on, your hammertoes start rubbing the insides of your shoes, which leads to uncomfortable corns. Your hammertoe may also lead to:
- Redness or burning
- Inflammation or swelling
- Limited toe joint movement
The chronic discomfort from hammertoes may cause you to start changing the way you walk, too. This can lead to secondary pain-causing issues throughout your feet and ankles.