Hammer Toe

Definition

A hammer toe is a contraction deformity, resulting in bony prominences on the feet.

Causes

• Improper or ill-fitting shoes
• Trauma
• High heeled shoes
• Heredity

What can you do?

• Change to shoes with lower heels
• Wear supportive shoes with a roomy toe box
• Soak to soften
• Use non-medicated corn pads

What might the podiatrist do?

• Perform a physical examination
• Perform X-ray evaluation to rule out other causes
• Recommend padding and taping
• Prescribe custom orthotics
• Prescribe anti-inflammatory medication
• Administer cortisone injections
• Perform surgery when indicated

Hammertoe Animations

  »  Hammertoe Correction

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