Do I Really Need Treatment for My Hammertoe?

Living with a hammertoe can be uncomfortable and frustrating. Hammertoes are a common foot condition, and many individuals wonder whether they truly need treatment or can simply live with the discomfort. 

Our experienced medical team at Washington Foot & Ankle Sports Medicine in Kirkland, Washington, will explain the importance of seeking treatment for hammertoes and the potential risks of not addressing this condition promptly.

Understanding hammertoes

A hammertoe is a toe deformity characterized by an abnormal bending of one or more joints. It typically affects the second, third, or fourth toes and can result in pain, discomfort, and difficulty wearing certain types of shoes. Several factors can contribute to the development of hammertoes, including genetics, ill-fitting shoes, and certain medical conditions like arthritis.

4 Reasons hammertoes need treatment

Because hammertoes seem like a minor inconvenience, many people wonder if they can just deal with it and leave the condition untreated. But left untreated, hammertoes can lead to more significant problems. 

Here are four reasons why seeking treatment for your hammertoe is essential:

1. Pain relief

Hammertoes can cause pain and discomfort, especially when walking or wearing tight shoes. Seeking treatment from our knowledgeable team can help alleviate this pain and improve your overall comfort.

2. Prevent more significant health issues

If left untreated, hammertoes can worsen over time and affect your neck, back, hips, and knees. Early intervention can help prevent the deformity from becoming more severe.

3. Improved mobility

Having a hammertoe can limit the range of motion in your affected toe, which in turn can affect how you walk. Treatment options can help restore proper toe alignment and improve your ability to move your toe comfortably.

4. Avoid other foot complications

Not only can hammertoes lead to significant physical issues, but they can also lead to other foot problems, including corns, calluses, and ulcers. Treating the condition can help prevent these complications from occurring.

Hammertoe treatment options

At Washington Foot & Ankle Sports Medicine, we offer a range of treatment options tailored to your specific needs. Our experienced team will evaluate your condition and recommend the most suitable treatment plan. 

Here are some common approaches to treating hammertoes:

• Wearing shoes with a wider toe box and better arch support 
• Custom-made orthotic devices 
• Shoe inserts and pads to relieve pressure
• Doing stretches can improve muscle strength and flexibility in the toes

For more severe cases, the surgeons at Washington Foot & Ankle Sports Medicine perform surgical procedures to correct hammertoe.

Don't hesitate to contact us for an evaluation and take the first step toward better foot health. Call the office or schedule an appointment online today.