If you are dealing with hammertoes, you already know how painful they can be. Hammertoes can make it difficult to stand and walk without pain. Fortunately, our podiatrist can help you deal with a hammertoe. Drs. John Sigle, Grant Gonzalez, and Keith Beauchamp at Foot & Ankle Center Of Illinois offer comprehensive podiatry services, including treatment of hammertoes. They have several convenient offices in Springfield, Decatur, Shelbyville, and Carlinville, IL, to help you.
What You Need To Know About Hammertoes
Hammertoes usually develop in the second, third, or fourth toe. They are caused by an imbalance in tendons and ligaments, resulting in your toe bending outward at the middle joint. The toe becomes permanently bent and unable to straighten out. The shape of the toe resembles a hammer.
You may develop a hammertoe because of:
- Pressure from a bunion
- A traumatic injury to your toe
- Muscle or tendon imbalances in your feet
- Wearing narrow shoes that crush your toes
- High arches, which can thrust your feet forward
- Degenerative joint conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
You can do a lot to prevent hammertoes. Remember to:
- Wear open shoes or sandals
- Wear shoes with a wide-toe box
- Stretch each toe individually
- Exercise your toes by trying to pick up items from the floor
- Take over-the-counter anti-inflammatory and pain medication
- Wear pads or cushions in your shoes to add support
For moderate to severe hammertoe discomfort, you should seek out the expertise of your podiatrist. Effective professional treatments for hammertoes include:
- Custom orthotics or footwear to correct a muscle/tendon imbalance
- Prescription-strength anti-inflammatory medication to reduce pain and swelling
- Splints and other devices to straighten and realign your toe
- Surgical treatment to correct toe alignment
Want To Know More?
To find out more about the prevention, causes, and treatment of hammertoes, talk with the experts. Call Drs. John Sigle, Grant Gonzalez, and Keith Beauchamp at Foot & Ankle Center Of Illinois. You can reach them in any of their four locations in Springfield, Decatur, Shelbyville, or Carlinville, IL, by calling (217) 787-2700, so call today.