Whether you've received a diagnosis of a hammertoe or are worried it's a possibility, it's essential to understand the condition and how it occurs. Fortunately, Dr. Mathew John offers various treatment approaches to assist at Ankle and Foot Centers, serving Marietta, GA, and the nearby region.

Overview

A hammertoe is when a toe joint is bent to the side and possibly downward, causing the toe to have a hammer shape. It affects the toe's second joint. And most commonly, it happens in toes other than the big one.

Symptoms

In a minor case, a hammertoe may not cause any symptoms, though you'll notice the change in shape.

If you have symptoms, you may experience pain that can affect the top portion of the toe or the ball of your foot. Besides pain, you could also have swelling, which can exasperate the discomfort. 

Because it's a deformity in the toe joint, you could develop difficulty moving the toe.

Since it can cause pressure on the skin, a corn or callus may develop, particularly on the top of the toe. In the more severe cases, you may struggle to walk normally.

Causes

The leading cause of a hammertoe is long-term pressure on the toe joint that pushes it out of position. As the pressure continues, the muscles and tendons in the region tighten, thus the shape.

Certain factors put you more at risk of developing a hammertoe, such as wearing shoes with a narrow toe box. Even wearing shoes that don't provide adequate arch support could place your toes in an awkward position and cause it.

Sometimes, the root cause is nothing you did. For instance, if you have high arches or flat feet, you have an increased likelihood. 

Certain health conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis or diabetes, could elevate your chances. 

Treatment

When you visit our Marietta, GA, office for a hammertoe, we'll perform a visual evaluation and assess your toe's range of motion. We'll ask you about any symptoms you have and may even ask you to walk so we can see firsthand the problems you're experiencing with your gait.

Our podiatrist may order an X-ray to look at the severity of the deformity. This imaging can also help rule out other causes. 

Your treatment will depend on the severity. In the least severe cases, changing footwear, wearing pads, or having an orthotic device is sufficient. Surgery is a last resort reserved for severe cases.

A visit to Ankle and Foot Centers, serving Marietta, GA, and the nearby region, with Dr. John can confirm a hammertoe and relieve symptoms.

You can call (770) 977-3668 to book an appointment.