HAMMERTOE DEFORMITY
What is a Hammertoe?
A hammertoe is a common foot deformity where one or more toes bend downward at the middle joint, creating a curled or “hammer-like” appearance. This condition most frequently affects the second or third toe, though any toe can be involved.
At SoCal Foot and Ankle Doctors, with offices in Santa Monica and the Cedars-Sinai Medical Towers, we offer expert care for hammertoes, including non-surgical and surgical treatments tailored to your lifestyle and severity of symptoms.
What Causes a Hammertoe?
Hammertoes typically develop over time due to muscle and tendon imbalances, which cause the toe to bend and become stuck in a curled position. Contributing factors include:
- Wearing tight or high-heeled shoes that crowd the toes
- Arthritis or inflammatory joint conditions
- Trauma or prior foot injuries
- Toe length abnormalities (e.g., second toe longer than the big toe)
- Neuromuscular conditions
Although some hammertoes are present at birth, the majority develop gradually due to repetitive stress and footwear choices
Symptoms of a Hammertoe
- Bent or curled toe appearance
- Pain when walking or wearing shoes
- Redness, swelling, or irritation at the toe joint
- Corns or calluses on the top of the toe or ball of the foot
- Stiffness or limited movement in the toe
- Progression from flexible to rigid deformity if untreated
Types of Hammertoe
- Flexible Hammertoe: The joint is still moveable. Early treatment can prevent progression.
- Rigid Hammertoe: The joint becomes stiff and fixed in a bent position. Surgical treatment is often needed.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Hammertoe in Santa Monica & Cedars-Sinai
Our podiatrists conduct a full clinical exam, assess gait and foot structure, and may take X-rays to evaluate joint alignment and severity.
Non-Surgical Treatment:
- Footwear modifications (roomy toe boxes, low heels)
- Custom orthotics to offload pressure
- Toe splints or taping
- Padding and corn removal
- Stretching and strengthening exercises
Surgical Treatment:
If conservative care fails or the hammertoe becomes rigid and painful, outpatient hammertoe surgery may be recommended to realign the joint, release tendons, or remove bone spurs. Minimally invasive options are available for faster recovery.
When to Seek Treatment
If you’re experiencing toe pain, corns, or visible toe deformity, early treatment is key to preventing permanent joint changes and avoiding surgery.
Book an appointment with SoCal Foot and Ankle Doctors at our Santa Monica or Cedars-Sinai location to get expert evaluation and relief from hammertoe discomfort.
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Location: Santa Monica
Mon – Thur: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Board Certified Foot & Ankle Specialist
Office Time
Location: Santa Monica
Mon – Thur: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
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