Hammer Toes

Hammer toes are a common foot deformity with an abnormal bending of toes, resembling a hammer. Primarily affecting the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes, they can cause pain, discomfort, and corns or calluses.

Causes: Various factors, like muscle imbalances, ill-fitting shoes, and genetics, can lead to hammer toes. High heels or narrow-toed shoes can also cause this issue. Medical conditions such as arthritis or nerve damage may play a role.

Symptoms: Symptoms of hammer toes may involve pain and discomfort in the toes, especially when wearing shoes or doing activities that require toe movement. Long-term, shoe friction can cause corns or calluses on the bent toes. Severe cases may result in rigid, less flexible toes.

Complications: Failure to address hammer toes may result in chronic pain, difficulty walking, and foot alignment changes. Development of corns and calluses can also lead to discomfort and increase infection risk.

Management: Managing hammer toes usually includes conservative treatments designed to alleviate discomfort and prevent the condition from deteriorating. New Arch Orthotics help redistribute the body's pressure away from the toes, directing it into the arch where it's supposed to be.

For severe or persistent cases of hammer toes that do not respond to conservative measures, medical intervention, such as surgery, may be considered to straighten the toes and correct any structural abnormalities.