Hammer toe is a common issue that causes walking to become increasingly more difficult. It’s a condition that causes the second or third toe to curl in a downward position rather than pointing straight out and is completely treatable by a foot doctor when detected in time. Knowing the causes will help you identify a problem before it happens, or when it’s in the early stages and most treatable. 

5 Causes of Hammer Toe

1. Injury

Damage to the toe itself could cause this issue to appear, whether you stub it on a piece of furniture or drop something heavy on it. These appendages tend to curl when experiencing any level of discomfort. Neglecting to have an experienced foot doctor take a look could allow a hammer toe to form.

2. Shoes

If you make a habit of wearing shoes that don’t fit quite right, you run the risk of developing hammer toe. This is especially true for elevated footwear. The tightness of the material combined with the height of the heel will make the toes roll in on themselves and become painful to walk upon.

3. Age

Arthritis is one of the leading culprits of stiff joints, settling in various areas of the body and gradually reducing functionality. If the disease develops within the toes and prevents them from moving freely, then it’s only a matter of time before they get stuck in a curled under position.

4. Genetics

Sometimes hammer toe is a matter of genetics. Individuals whose families have a history with this deformity are at greater risk of developing it no matter how many precautions they take. However, setting up regular appointments with a foot doctor and acquiring treatments will help to alleviate any discomfort.

5. Length

Second and third toes that are longer than the big toe are more susceptible to hammer toe. Their length causes them to be pressed up against the material of the shoe and could make them roll into a slightly curled position.

If you’re concerned about the condition of your feet, connect with St Peter’s Foot & Ankle: Samuel T. Wood-DPM. He is recognized as one of the top foot doctors in a 35-mile radius around St. Peters and Florissant, MO, and specializes in a variety of podiatry issues, including bunions, hammer toe, and sprained ankles. He’s also a Fellow of Foot and Ankle Surgeons and strives to stay up-to-date on the latest industry techniques. Call (636) 720-0190 to speak with a friendly staff member or visit his website for more information on the services he has to offer.