Non-Surgical Treatments for Hammertoes

Foot deformities can occur at birth or develop over time due to lifestyle and footwear choices. One such deformity is known as a hammertoe. If you have this condition, you may be wary of surgery, but your podiatrist may offer non-surgical options to help you. The office of Dr. Sanford Clay Proner treats various foot conditions, including ingrown toenails, heel pain, and hammertoes in Bronxville and Dobbs Ferry, NY.

What Is a Hammertoe?

A hammertoe occurs when the affected toe remains bent in a hammer-like position. This can happen due to improper shoes that don't provide enough room for your toes to move. People with flat feet or high arches are also susceptible to developing hammertoes.

The condition can be inherited if it runs in your family. If you know your close relatives have developed this condition, try to prevent it by wearing appropriate footwear. Hammertoes can often be painful as the toe may rub against shoes and cause calluses or corns. This can make it difficult to walk comfortably for extended periods or to wear certain types of shoes.

Understanding Non-Surgical Treatment Methods

Depending on the severity of your deformity, non-surgical treatments may be effective. Your podiatrist may recommend wearing specialized footwear, which could include special shoes or orthotic inserts. Orthotic inserts help correct deformities and provide comfort by preventing your toes and other affected areas from rubbing inside your shoes. This rubbing can result in more pain and contribute to calluses, corns, and ingrown toenails. Designated foot pads can also provide cushioning.

Physical therapy may help stretch the toe ligaments and muscles to restore proper bending. Professional therapy exercises can strengthen toe muscles and improve flexibility over time. Because this condition can be painful, your podiatrist may also prescribe anti-inflammatory medication. Expect to have follow-up visits with your local podiatrist to assess whether the non-surgical methods are working or if your condition is advancing.

Contact Sanford Clay Proner DPM

You can seek help for your hammertoes in Bronxville, NY, and Dobbs Ferry, NY, without resorting to invasive surgery. Start your journey to improving this foot condition with a visit to the office of Dr. Proner. Call the Bronxville, NY, office at 914-237-7300 or the Dobbs Ferry, NY, office at 914-693-0006 for more information.