Hammertoes 101

One common reason people consult a podiatrist is to seek treatment for hammertoes. Hammertoes can cause foot pain and make walking difficult, and in some cases, they require foot surgery. Watch this video to learn more, and make an appointment with your podiatrist near Chicago if you think you could have hammertoes.

Hammertoes are characterized by toes that bend rather than lay flat. The bend can cause the top of the toe to rub against your shoes, causing calluses and corns. It can also put pressure on the pads of your toe, which causes foot pain. Although hammertoes tend to run in families, they can also be caused by arthritis, bunions, and wearing shoes that are pointed or too tight at the toes. Your podiatrist will try conservative treatment methods first, and if those aren’t successful, may recommend surgery.