Hammer Toe Treatment & Surgery in Chicago, IL

Hammer toes are a common foot condition that occurs when the middle joint of the toe becomes bent and stuck in a downward position, causing the toe to resemble a hammer. This condition can affect any toe, but it most commonly occurs in the second or third toe. Hammer toes can cause pain, discomfort, and difficulty wearing shoes.

There are several causes of hammer toes, including genetics, wearing shoes that are too tight or too high, and certain medical conditions such as arthritis and nerve damage. People with flat feet or high arches may also be at a higher risk of developing hammer toes.

Hammer Toe

What Is a Hammer Toe?

A hammer toe deformity occurs when one or more of your smaller toes bend abnormally at the middle joint, creating a curled or hammer-like shape. Over time, this can cause pain, corns, and difficulty wearing shoes comfortably.

Common hammer toe symptoms include:

  • Toes that stay bent even when you try to straighten them

  • Pain or irritation when wearing shoes

  • Corns and calluses, or redness on top of the toe joint

  • Swelling or stiffness

What Causes Hammer Toes?

Several factors can lead to hammer toe deformity, including:

  • Wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes

  • Muscle or tendon imbalance

  • Arthritis or injury

  • Genetic predisposition

If you’ve been wondering what causes hammer toes, it often starts with footwear that crowds the toes, eventually leading to joint and tendon imbalance.

Hammer Toe Treatments & Surgery Options

In the early stages, hammer toe treatments may include custom orthotics, toe splints, or footwear changes to reduce pressure. However, when the condition becomes rigid or painful, a hammer toes operation may be needed.

Our surgeons perform advanced hammer toe surgery in Chicago using minimally invasive techniques for faster healing and reduced discomfort. We’ll customize your surgical plan to correct alignment and restore normal toe function.

Hammer Toe Surgery Recovery

After your hammer toe surgery, our podiatrists provide complete post-operative care and guidance. Most patients can walk with protective footwear shortly after surgery, with full recovery taking a few weeks. We closely monitor your progress to ensure a smooth, successful hammer toe surgery recovery.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

Don’t let hammer toe pain keep you from walking comfortably. Contact Michigan Avenue Podiatry in Chicago, IL, today to schedule your consultation and learn about your best hammer toe treatment options.

Hammer Toes

Hammer toes are a common foot condition that occurs when the middle joint of the toe becomes bent and stuck in a downward position, causing the toe to resemble a hammer. This condition can affect any toe, but it most commonly occurs in the second or third toe. Hammer toes can cause pain, discomfort, and difficulty wearing shoes.

There are several causes of hammer toes, including genetics, wearing shoes that are too tight or too high, and certain medical conditions such as arthritis and nerve damage. People with flat feet or high arches may also be at a higher risk of developing hammer toes.

The symptoms of hammer toes can include pain, stiffness, and a visible deformity of the affected toe. Corns or calluses may also develop on the toe due to friction or pressure from shoes. In severe cases, the affected toe may become rigid and unable to move.

Treatment for hammer toes may include wearing wider or more comfortable shoes, using pads or cushions to alleviate pressure on the affected toe, and doing exercises to stretch and strengthen the muscles in the toes. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the deformity.

Prevention is key when it comes to hammer toes. It’s important to wear shoes that fit properly and provide enough room for the toes to move freely. Avoid wearing high heels or shoes with a narrow toe box for extended periods of time. Regularly stretching and exercising the feet and toes can also help prevent hammer toes from developing.

If you are experiencing foot pain or notice a deformity in your toes, it’s important to see a podiatrist for an evaluation. They can diagnose and treat hammer toes and other foot conditions, and provide guidance on how to prevent them from occurring in the future.

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