Hammertoes
Hammertoes : More Than a Cosmetic Concern
Hammertoes are a common foot deformity that involve abnormal bending of one or both joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes. When the toe is no longer able to lie flat, it can rub against footwear and neighboring toes, leading to pain, irritation, and the development of calluses or even wounds. Although often thought of as a cosmetic issue, hammertoes can significantly affect comfort and mobility.
This condition is frequently associated with other structural foot problems, such as bunions, tendon imbalances, or other muscular dysfunctions. When these imbalances occur, they alter the way pressure is distributed across the foot. As a result, the ball of the foot may bear more weight than it should, increasing the likelihood of pain, inflammation, or thickened skin (calluses) under the forefoot.
Personalized Treatment Options
Treatment for hammertoes varies depending on the severity and flexibility of the deformity. Early, flexible hammertoes may be treated with conservative approaches, including shoe modifications, custom padding, splinting, or orthotic devices to help alleviate pressure and restore alignment. For more rigid or advanced cases, surgical correction may be needed to straighten the toe and relieve discomfort.
At Foot and Ankle Center of Iowa, our physicians specialize in diagnosing and treating complex forefoot conditions. We are proud to offer expert evaluation and treatment of hammertoes at each of our convenient clinic locations: Ankeny, Des Moines, Fort Dodge, Grimes, and Sac City. We’ll perform a comprehensive evaluation—including X-rays and biomechanical assessment as needed—and work closely with you to develop a personalized care plan. Our goal is to address the root cause of your symptoms, relieve your pain, and help you return to pain-free movement with confidence. We also stock and dispense most treatment items directly at each location, allowing us to initiate care without delay. Wherever you choose to see us, you can expect the same high standard of care, efficiency, and personalized treatment tailored to help you move forward—pain free.