Exceptional Foot Care with Hammertoe Specialists in Illinois

Millions of Americans suffer hammertoe deformities, yet a considerable percentage of these people are yet to receive diagnosis or treatment, for that matter. If you assume hammertoe and the condition worsens, it can affect your long-term foot development and health. Podiatrist Kriti Puthenpurakal, DPM, offers safe, effective treatments for hammertoe at American Foot & Ankle Specialists in Downer's Grove and Naperville, IL. Dr. Kriti has years of experience diagnosing this condition and welcomes patients across the Northeaste Illinois area at her practice. To consult with a Naperville hammertoe specialist, call the American Foot & Ankle Specialists' office or use the online booking tool to request an appointment.

What Is Hammertoe?

Hammertoe results in a bend in the middle joint of the toe. Another similar condition, the mallet toe, affects the joint closest to the toenail. Both mallet toe and hammertoe generally affect the second, third, and fourth toes.

The bend in the joint causes your toe to curl downward instead of pointing forward or lying flat- this exerts pressure on the toe when you wear shoes, causing more problems. Typically, hammertoe worsens with time. Some common symptoms of this condition include burning sensation, inflammation, bend in the toe, open sores, difficulty walking, calluses and corns, inability to flex your toes, redness, and pain, especially when wearing shoes. If you think you may have this condition, it's best to seek medical attention immediately.

What Are The Common Causes Of Hammertoe?

Hammertoe occurs due to an imbalance in the ligaments, muscles, and tendons keeping your toes aligned. If your shoes become too tight, they push your toes into an unusually bent position. Muscles held in such a position for long periods tend to tighten and cannot stretch out, even when you are no longer wearing shoes. Other common causes for hammertoe include:

o Bunions.

o Genetics.

o High arch.

o Diabetes.

o Arthritis.

o A foot injury or trauma.

o Second toe longer than the big toe.

o Spinal cord or peripheral nerve damage.

Females are also more likely to develop hammertoe as they age. Dr. Puthenpurakal is highly skilled and experienced in hammertoe diagnosis. If you suffer any of these symptoms, schedule a consultation with her to get your feet examined.

What Are The Available Treatments For Hammertoe?

Your hammertoe can be treated through conservative measures or surgery, depending on the adversity of your condition. At American Foot & Ankle Specialists, patients can benefit from a wide range of solutions, including:

o Footwear- avoid shoes that are too small, tight, or have an extremely high heel. Broader shoes that are roomy and deep with a lower heel prevent squashing of your toes.

o Support aids- pads and corn cushioning ease the pain and prevent worsening of a hammertoe. Straps and splints can be used to realign your bent toe.

o Medication- Over-the-counter drugs such as ibuprofen (Advil) help ease swelling and pain. Prescribed treatments such as corticosteroid injections provide more robust pain relief.

o Physical therapy- toe exercises help in strengthening the toe muscles.

o Surgery- if conservative measures fail, Dr. Puthenpurakal can surgically correct your affected toes.

That said, the sooner you and your provider diagnose hammertoe, the easier it is to treat. Call the American Foot & Ankle Specialists office to talk to a team member or use the online booking tool today to request an appointment.