Hammertoes are a deformity to your toe which causes pain and difficulty walking. They got their name from how the toe joint usually resembles a hammer. If you leave a hammertoe uninterrupted, it will become stiff, and you might be unable to move it. That’s why healing your hammertoe quickly is the most important step forward.

One of the downsides to hammertoes is that there aren’t many ways you can help your condition at home. If you have a hammertoe, it’s crucial to get the help of a podiatrist as soon as you can. Catching and treating this condition before it gets severe can help prevent surgery and other invasive procedures.

Here are Four Ways to Treat Hammertoes:

Have your feet measured each time you buy new shoes. Choose shoes with extra room in the toe box for your toes to move without rubbing. A wider toe box will decrease rubbing and prevent the formation of blisters and corns on the hammertoes.
Use orthotics and other shoe inserts. Orthotic inserts such as metatarsal lifts can be inserted under the base of bending toes to allow the tendons to release and straighten the toe. Placing pads over your corns to prevent rubbing can help them heal properly. Using toe braces and splints can pull bent toes back into alignment while resting.
Consider over-the-counter medications for pain. Ibuprofen or acetaminophen may be taken according to label directions for pain and swelling reduction.
Exercise and strengthen your feet. Stand on a towel and slowly scrunch your toes back and forth for five minutes. Another great exercise is to pick up small objects with your toes and drop them in a cup.

At Advanced Foot Care of NJ, LLC, Dr. Anant Joshi and his staff treat various conditions and are committed to providing results. We are conveniently located in Woodland Park and welcome our neighbors in Little Falls, Cedar Grove, Verona, Stoney Road, Sandy Hill, Albion Place, and Great Notch. To schedule an appointment, contact his office at 973-256-0002.