What Causes Hammertoes and How to Spot the Early Signs

Hammertoes may sound like a quirky name, but for people dealing with them, the discomfort is anything but lighthearted. This condition happens when one or more of the smaller toes bend abnormally at the middle joint, creating a curled or “hammer-like” appearance. At Podiatry Associates, with offices in Birmingham and Sylacauga, AL, Dr. Robert I. Russell, Dr. James H. Bowman, and Dr. Edward Stanulevich help patients understand how hammertoes develop and what to look for before the problem gets worse.

Why Hammertoes Develop

The main cause of hammertoes is muscle imbalance. Each toe has muscles that work together to keep it straight. If one set of muscles overpowers the others, the toe begins to bend downward. Over time, the joint stiffens, and the toe may become locked in this position.

Footwear plays a big role in this imbalance. Shoes that are too tight, too short, or have a narrow toe box force the toes into unnatural positions. High heels, for example, put extra pressure on the front of the foot, increasing the risk of hammertoes. Genetics, arthritis, and past injuries can also contribute, making some people more prone than others.

Early Signs to Watch For

Hammertoes don’t develop overnight. They usually start with subtle changes that get worse if ignored. Common early signs include:

• A toe that starts bending downward at the middle joint.
• Corns or calluses form where the toe rubs against shoes.
• Pain or irritation when wearing certain footwear.
• Redness or swelling around the affected joint.

At this stage, the toe may still be flexible, meaning professional care can prevent the condition from becoming permanent. Once the joint stiffens, treatment becomes more difficult.

Why Early Care Makes a Difference

Spotting hammertoes early gives you more options for treatment. Simple changes, like wearing shoes with a wider toe box, getting custom orthotics, and doing specialized toe exercises, can relieve pressure and keep the condition from progressing. If left untreated, hammertoes can lead to constant pain, chronic irritation, and even difficulty walking.

Specialized Care in Birmingham and Sylacauga

At Podiatry Associates, Dr. Russell, Dr. Bowman, and Dr. Stanulevich provide personalized treatment for hammertoes at every stage of development. Whether the goal is to stop the problem early or to address an advanced case, their expertise helps patients find comfort and maintain mobility.

Schedule an Appointment Today

If you’ve noticed changes in your toes or are struggling with foot pain, don’t wait until hammertoes become more severe. Contact Podiatry Associates in Birmingham or Sylacauga to schedule an appointment and get the care your feet need to stay pain-free.

Birmingham

(205) 933-9595

Sylacauga

(256) 249-2212