Hammertoes
Hammertoe is a common foot condition involving the abnormal bending of one or both joints in a toe—typically any toe except the big toe. This joint misalignment causes the toe to curl downward instead of lying flat, making it difficult to wear shoes and increasing the risk of irritation, pain, and long-term deformity.
At Knoxville Footcare, we treat hammertoes with a focus on relieving discomfort, reducing pressure, and preserving joint mobility before the condition becomes fixed or worsens.
What We Offer
- Padding and shoe modifications to relieve friction and reduce pressure on the affected toes
- Trimming and care for corns and calluses that develop due to shoe irritation
- Custom orthotics or inserts to correct foot alignment and reduce joint stress
- Splinting or strapping to gently straighten flexible hammertoes
- Anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and swelling
- Footwear guidance for supportive, roomy shoes with soft toe boxes
- Surgical correction for rigid or painful hammertoes that do not respond to conservative treatment
When to Schedule a Visit
Hammertoes often worsen over time. You should schedule a foot exam if you notice:
- Pain, stiffness, or irritation in one or more toes
- Corns on the top, side, or end of the toe
- Calluses on the ball of the foot or bottom of the toes
- Difficulty wearing shoes due to rubbing or pressure
- Increased difficulty straightening the toe or walking comfortably
Understanding Hammertoe Progression
Left untreated, flexible hammertoes can become rigid and more difficult to correct. Friction between the shoe and bent joints can lead to chronic pain, thick corns, or even open sores. Early evaluation can help prevent the need for surgery and preserve joint function.
Restore Comfort and Function
Our team at Knoxville Footcare will work with you to relieve pain and prevent further deformity—starting with conservative care and exploring surgical options when necessary.
Call Knoxville Footcare today at (865) 632-5700 to schedule your hammertoe evaluation and take the next step toward relief.