Role of Orthotics in the Management of Hammertoes
- posted: Apr. 08, 2025
Hammertoes can make every step painful, especially if left uncorrected. If you are experiencing pain, stiffness, and shoe-fitting issues, orthotics are the way to go. At AAL Podiatry Associates in Suffolk and Norfolk, VA, Dr. Jesse Anderson utilizes custom orthotics and other noninvasive methods to treat the discomfort and restore the function of the hammertoes.
Understanding Hammertoes
A hammertoe develops when a lesser toe's middle joint continuously bends strangely, resulting in a hammer-like shape. Muscle imbalance, arthritis, tight shoes, or structural problems in the foot cause hammertoes. Over time, pressure concentrates as the shoe rubs against the toe with the deformity, making the toe stiff and painful.
Symptoms generally include:
- A downwardly bent toe rather than a forwardly projecting toe
- Ache or pain inside the shoe
- Toe calluses or corns where they rub against the shoe
- Redness and swelling of the infected toe
If caught early, hammertoes are more flexible and can be treated more easily without surgery.
How Orthotics Assist
Orthotics are custom-fitted inserts that support and stabilize the foot. In hammertoe, orthotics significantly reduce pressure, correct the alignment of the foot's mechanics, and stop the progression of the deformity. They also pad the area, eliminate irritation, and provide greater balance, which makes walking easier.
Orthotics correct underlying problems, such as flat feet or a high arch, that tend to lead to the development of hammertoes. By making your foot function more normally with every step, orthotics take the pressure away from the toe joints and promote more normal function.
Alternative Conservative Treatments
Dr. Anderson can prescribe supportive shoes with a roomy toe box, padding, stretching, and orthotics. If the hammertoe still maintains some flexibility, these methods will often be enough to provide relief and restore mobility.
Get Relief from Hammertoes
You no longer have to suffer from the discomfort of hammertoes. Dr. Jesse Anderson at AAL Podiatry Associates in Norfolk and Suffolk, VA, offers experienced service and personalized orthotics to keep you active and pain-free. Contact today at (757) 625-2962 or (757) 539-2098 and schedule your appointment.
- posted: Apr. 08, 2025
Hammertoes can make every step painful, especially if left uncorrected. If you are experiencing pain, stiffness, and shoe-fitting issues, orthotics are the way to go. At AAL Podiatry Associates in Suffolk and Norfolk, VA, Dr. Jesse Anderson utilizes custom orthotics and other noninvasive methods to treat the discomfort and restore the function of the hammertoes.
Understanding Hammertoes
A hammertoe develops when a lesser toe's middle joint continuously bends strangely, resulting in a hammer-like shape. Muscle imbalance, arthritis, tight shoes, or structural problems in the foot cause hammertoes. Over time, pressure concentrates as the shoe rubs against the toe with the deformity, making the toe stiff and painful.
Symptoms generally include:
- A downwardly bent toe rather than a forwardly projecting toe
- Ache or pain inside the shoe
- Toe calluses or corns where they rub against the shoe
- Redness and swelling of the infected toe
If caught early, hammertoes are more flexible and can be treated more easily without surgery.
How Orthotics Assist
Orthotics are custom-fitted inserts that support and stabilize the foot. In hammertoe, orthotics significantly reduce pressure, correct the alignment of the foot's mechanics, and stop the progression of the deformity. They also pad the area, eliminate irritation, and provide greater balance, which makes walking easier.
Orthotics correct underlying problems, such as flat feet or a high arch, that tend to lead to the development of hammertoes. By making your foot function more normally with every step, orthotics take the pressure away from the toe joints and promote more normal function.
Alternative Conservative Treatments
Dr. Anderson can prescribe supportive shoes with a roomy toe box, padding, stretching, and orthotics. If the hammertoe still maintains some flexibility, these methods will often be enough to provide relief and restore mobility.
Get Relief from Hammertoes
You no longer have to suffer from the discomfort of hammertoes. Dr. Jesse Anderson at AAL Podiatry Associates in Norfolk and Suffolk, VA, offers experienced service and personalized orthotics to keep you active and pain-free. Contact today at (757) 625-2962 or (757) 539-2098 and schedule your appointment.
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