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Are Bunions Affecting Your Everyday Life?

Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.

Hammertoe and Toe Joint Imbalance

Hammertoe is a foot deformity where a toe bends at the middle joint, causing it to curl downward instead of lying flat. It usually affects the second toe, and happens when the muscles and tendons in the toe are not balanced. This can cause one part of the toe to bend upward while another part bends downward. Hammertoe is seen more often in women, often because of wearing tight or high-heeled shoes. Other causes include muscle imbalance and changes in foot structure. Risk factors include aging, family history, and wearing narrow shoes. Symptoms may include pain, corns, calluses, and trouble finding comfortable shoes. A podiatrist can check your toes, suggest treatments, and help relieve discomfort. If you notice changes in your toes, it is suggested you schedule a visit for care. 

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners from Illinois. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

  • Pain in the affected toes
  • Development of corns or calluses due to friction
  • Inflammation
  • Redness
  • Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Metropolis and Eldorado, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about What Are Hammertoes?