A hammertoe is a contracture of the toe that causes the middle joint to bend upward, resembling the hammer of a piano. While it might begin as a minor cosmetic concern, this condition is progressive, meaning it will likely get worse without intervention. At All Valley Podiatric Group in Fresno, CA, Dr. Anoosh Moadab, DPM, diagnoses and treats hammertoes to prevent them from reaching a rigid, painful state. Understanding the causes of this change is the first step in protecting your long-term mobility.

The primary driver behind hammertoes is an imbalance in the muscles and tendons that keep the toes straight. Your toes rely on a complex tension system to flex and extend. When the muscles that pull the toe downward become stronger than the muscles that pull it upward, the toe begins to curl. Over time, the tendons tighten and the joint becomes stuck in this bent position. This imbalance is often due to your natural foot structure; for example, people with very high arches or flat feet are more susceptible to the mechanical changes that lead to toe contractures.

While genetics play a significant role, your choice of shoes can accelerate the development of hammertoes. Footwear with a narrow, pointed toe box squeezes the toes into a cramped space, forcing them into a flexed position. High heels are particularly problematic because they shift the body’s weight forward, jamming the toes against the front of the shoe. If the toes are held in this bent position for several hours a day, the connective tissues eventually adapt to that shape, making it difficult for the toe to flatten even when you are barefoot.

A sudden injury, such as stubbing, jamming, or breaking a toe, can damage the stabilizing ligaments and lead to the eventual formation of a hammertoe. Additionally, certain systemic health issues can affect the nerves and muscles of the feet. Rheumatoid arthritis can cause joint inflammation that displaces the toes, while diabetes can lead to nerve damage that weakens the small muscles in the foot, allowing the larger tendons to pull the toes out of alignment.

In its early stages, a hammertoe is flexible, and non-surgical treatments like padding, custom orthotics, or splinting can be highly effective. However, if left untreated, the joint can become fixed or "frozen," often requiring surgical correction to restore a flat position. If you notice a persistent bend in your second, third, or fourth toe, or if you are developing painful corns on the tops of your toe joints, it is time for a professional evaluation.

Dr. Anoosh Moadab, DPM, and our team are dedicated to helping Fresno, CA, residents maintain healthy, pain-free feet. We provide comprehensive evaluations to determine the exact cause of your toe deformity and create a plan to stop its progression. Contact All Valley Podiatric Group at (559) 436-1213 to schedule an appointment and keep your feet in proper alignment.