Hammertoe is a condition that causes abnormal flexing of the toes and can be quite painful. Hammertoe can form on any of the toes, but usually impacts the middle three toes, with the second toe being the most commonly affected.

Over time, if abnormal pressures are constantly put on your toes, the joints and tendons may no longer work properly, causing your toes to bend into a hammertoe shape as a way to compensate.

Possible reasons for hammertoe may consist of:

1. Forcing your foot into a shoe that is too small or doesn't fit properly, or wearing high heels that squeeze your toes into a cramped toe area.
2. An injury like severely stubbing your toe.
3. Inflammation of the joints.

Nerve and muscle injuries caused by conditions like diabetes.

Bent toes are the primary indicator of hammertoes, but additional symptoms may also be present.

1. 1.Discomfort and limited flexibility when moving the toe.
2. 2.Corns on the tops of the toe or toes are caused by friction with the toe box of the shoe, resulting in pain.
3. Sore calluses on the soles of the toe or toes.
4. 4. Discomfort located under the ball of the foot.
5. 5.. Inflammation and swelling around the joints.

What are hammertoe treatments?

Your podiatrist will suggest treatments to relieve the pressure on your affected toes and give them room to return to their natural position, including:Your podiatrist will suggest treatments to relieve the pressure on your affected toes and give them room to return to their natural position, including:

1.Footwear changes: It is advisable to start wearing shoes that have a wide toe area so that the toes do not press against the shoe. It is possible to try a stretching tool on footwear you currently possess to make it wider.

2. Pads and taping: OTC toe pads are shoed tht helps to pad the area around the toes. Your provider might recommend taping of the toes to allow proper positioning with the use of medical tape.
3. Orthotic devices: Orthotics are shoes that are used to help support the feet and to make sure that the toes are in the right line. You might require prescription ones, or more common ones that you have to get over the counter, or perhaps you might require special ones that have to be prescribed and made according to your feet. Your provider may also advise that you wear a space divider between the involved toes as well.
4. Pain relievers: Non-steroidal anti- inflammatory drug are responsible for pain relief and decreased inflammation. Do not use NSAIDs for more than 10 days without consulting your healthcare provider.

Toe exercises: Your podiatrist may recommend some exercises that will assist in trying to keep the toes in the right position.

5. Surgery: Sophisticated surgical procedures are usually to be suggested if other treatments do not help or if walking becomes unbearable. Your provider or surgeon will inform you of which kind of surgery you require and the prognosis to be expected.

It's better to prevent than to treat!

If Hammertoes aren't leading to pain or alterations in your walking or running stride, they are likely harmless and do not need to be treated.

At what point should you schedule an appointment with a Brampton Orthotic and Foot Supplies to either relieve your pain or get orthopedic Shoes?

The condition of Hammertoe is typically permanent, but it can sometimes be slowed down or stopped from getting worse. If you experience pain in your toes and find it hard to walk, it is advisable to see Brampton Orthotic and Foot Supplies.