What is hammer toe?

Hammer toe is a deformity of the foot that affects the second, third, or fourth toes. It occurs when the middle joint of the toe bends downwards, resembling a hammer. This abnormal bend is usually the result of an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that control toe movement. Over time, this imbalance causes the toe to become stuck in a bent position, leading to discomfort and difficulty walking.

Hammer toe can be flexible in its early stages, meaning the toe can still be moved. However, if left untreated, the condition can become rigid, where the toe is permanently bent and cannot be straightened without medical intervention.

Hammer toe symptoms

Symptoms of hammer toe may vary depending on the severity of the deformity, but common signs include:

• A bent toe that resembles a hammer.
• Pain or discomfort in the affected toe, particularly when wearing shoes.
• Corns or calluses on the top of the toe or at the tip due to friction against shoes.
• Redness, swelling, or inflammation in the affected area.
• Difficulty or pain when walking, especially if the hammer toe has become rigid.
• Limited or reduced movement in the affected toe.

As the condition progresses, the pain may worsen, and the deformity can affect your balance or gait.

How does Dr Abramson treat hammer toe?

Dr Michael Abramson takes a comprehensive approach to treating hammer toe, tailoring his methods to the severity of the condition and the individual needs of each patient. Initially, he focuses on non-surgical treatments, which may include recommending footwear modifications to alleviate pressure on the affected toe, using custom orthotics to correct foot alignment, and employing padding or taping to reduce discomfort and manage corns or calluses.

Additionally, Dr Abramson may suggest stretching and strengthening exercises to improve the flexibility and balance of the toe muscles. For cases where conservative measures are insufficient, he may consider surgical intervention. Surgical options might involve tendon release for flexible hammer toes, joint resection or fusion for rigid cases, or minimally invasive techniques to reduce recovery time and scarring. Dr Abramson ensures that each patient receives a personalized treatment plan and provides guidance throughout the recovery process to achieve the best possible outcome.

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