Is one of your toes bent in a claw-like shape, especially after you spend long periods on your feet? You might be dealing with a hammertoe deformity, a common foot problem that develops when the middle joint of a toe bends on its own.
Rather than lying flat, a hammertoe curls downward, often causing foot pain and stiffness. If you are still able to move your toe at the joint, it’s a flexible hammertoe. At this stage, nonsurgical treatments are more likely to be successful.
Our team at Legacy Foot & Ankle offers custom orthotics in Bay City, Caro, Lapeer, and Rochester Hills, Michigan, and they’re often one of the most effective treatments available. Here’s how custom orthotics can help.
A hammertoe occurs when a toe’s middle joint becomes abnormally bent. It gets its name because the toe looks like a hammer or a claw because it doesn’t lie flat with your other toes.
A flexible hammertoe can still be straightened manually, even though the toe is bent. It’s different from a rigid hammertoe, where the joint is stiff or locked in place.
Some common causes of flexible hammertoes are:
Barring treatment, a flexible hammertoe can become stiff over time. Rigid hammertoes are more treatment-resistant and may eventually require surgery, so early intervention is important.
Custom orthotics are medical-grade shoe inserts that are made to fit the unique shape and needs of your feet. When it comes to hammertoes, orthotic inserts can both relieve symptoms and even help correct a flexible hammertoe deformity.
Custom orthotics work by optimizing your foot alignment and giving you extra support where you need it most. Correct alignment reduces muscle imbalances that can contribute to hammertoe issues, and weight redistribution relieves pressure on the bent toe.
Orthotics also help reduce painful rubbing against the inside of your shoe by cushioning key areas. Depending on your needs, we may also add a toe crest pad or metatarsal pad to support the toe from beneath and keep it in a more natural position
Most importantly, the support you get with custom orthotics helps prevent the hammertoe deformity from getting worse or becoming rigid.
If you’re experiencing toe pain, you have a visible toe deformity, or you experience discomfort when walking or wearing shoes, it’s worth visiting a podiatrist. We offer comprehensive exams and medical imaging as needed to confirm your diagnosis and determine the severity of the condition.
Flexible hammertoes are far easier to treat than those that are rigid. If your hammertoe is still flexible, conservative treatments like orthotics, stretching exercises, taping, and shoe modifications can go a long way in managing the condition and avoiding surgery.
Don’t ignore foot pain or noticeable changes in your toe shape. With the right support, you can stay ahead of the progression of hammertoe and avoid the need for more invasive treatments down the road. Book your first appointment at Legacy Foot & Ankle online or call the offices nearest you today.
