3 Early Intervention Care Strategies to Reverse Flexible Hammertoe

Hammertoes are one of the most common foot issues. They occur when something puts your toes in an awkward position for an extended period, like wearing shoes that don’t fit properly. Over time, the muscles and tendons in your toes adapt to the new position and shorten, causing the affected toe (or toes) to stay in a bent or curled position permanently.

Several types of hammertoes exist, but flexible hammertoes are particularly bothersome. While the affected toe can still bend and move, a noticeable curve begins to form, affecting your mobility and quality of life. The good news is that you can prevent a flexible hammertoe from evolving into a rigid one with preventive care.

At Mayfair Foot Care in Commack, New York, podiatrists Drs. Edward Buro, Christine Peterson, and Rosario Saccomanno specialize in flexible hammertoe treatment. Keep reading to discover a three-step process for keeping your toes flexible and pain-free.

3 tips for preventing flexible hammertoes from worsening

The best way to avoid a flexible toe from becoming permanently locked is to take preventive measures. These three tips can help:

1. Stretch and strengthen your toe muscles

Because flexible hammertoes are caused by abnormal pressure on the soft tissues in your toes, the easiest way to stop them is to keep your toe muscles strong and flexible. Targeted exercises increase circulation to your feet, reduce stiffness, and encourage full range of motion.

Several exercises can be beneficial, but we recommend toe crunches with a towel. All you need is a towel or washcloth and your bare feet. Begin by sitting in a chair or on the side of your bed, unfold the towel or washcloth, and lay it out on the floor in front of you. 

Then, scrunch the towel with your toes, hold for a second or two, and then use your toes to straighten it back out. Repeat these same steps 8-12 times per foot, once in the morning and once at night. 

For the best results, do this exercise daily. The more you practice, the stronger your toe muscles become, helping you stay mobile and pain-free.

2. Wear proper footwear and ask us about custom orthotics

Many people develop flexible hammertoes from the shoes they wear. High heels, for example, can crowd your toes and force them into an awkward position for hours. Your job may have a dress code, but your feet don’t have to suffer. Flats or other roomy shoes offer more toe space and take pressure off your toe joints, preventing further aggravation.

While changing shoes helps in many cases, custom orthotics may provide additional relief if your hammertoe continues to bother you. These prescription shoe inserts are designed specifically for your feet and can help support your arch and improve foot alignment to prevent hammertoes from worsening.

3. Try toe splints or toe straighteners

Sometimes, wearing different shoes and toe exercises don’t stop flexible hammertoes from progressing. When this happens, we often recommend toe splints or toe straighteners. These over-the-counter (OTC) products are designed to hold your affected toe properly, giving the surrounding soft tissues time to heal.

Typically, you wear these devices overnight while sleeping, but they aren’t necessarily a cure-all. Continue stretching your toes daily and wearing appropriate shoes to provide a comfortable and supportive environment for optimal results.

Schedule flexible hammertoe treatment

If you’re struggling to cope with the symptoms of a flexible hammertoe, help is available. Contact Mayfair Foot Care today to schedule a consultation and treatment. Call our office in Commack, New York, to make an appointment or book your visit online.