Hammertoes are more than a cosmetic concern—they can lead to ongoing pain, difficulty walking, and long-term foot complications if left untreated. Dr. Yuko Miyazaki specializes in diagnosing and treating hammertoes using both conservative and surgical methods tailored to your needs.
What are Hammertoes?
Hammertoes are a common toe deformity where one or more toes bend abnormally at the middle joint, creating a hammer-like appearance. This condition most often affects the second, third, or fourth toes and can gradually worsen without proper care.
Over time, the imbalance in toe muscles and tendons can alter the alignment of your toe joints, leading to stiffness, friction, and discomfort with every step. Identifying hammertoes early allows for non-invasive treatments and helps avoid more complex foot issues.
Symptoms and Causes of Hammertoes
Recognizing the signs of hammertoes early can help prevent progression. Common symptoms include:
- Toes that appear bent or curled downward
- Pain or soreness, especially when wearing shoes
- Corns and calluses from friction or pressure
- Redness, swelling, or limited joint movement
Primary causes of hammertoes include:
- Shoes with a snug fit or narrow toe space can crowd your toes, causing them to shift out of alignment and bend in unnatural ways, increasing strain and discomfort.
- Muscle or tendon imbalance, which alters joint alignment
- Nerve injuries or conditions such as diabetes or stroke that affect foot control
How Are Hammertoes Diagnosed?
Dr. Yuko Miyazaki takes a comprehensive approach to diagnosing hammertoes:
- Physical examination to observe deformity, stiffness, and skin irritation
- Medical history review to assess contributing factors like footwear and underlying health conditions
- Imaging tests (like X-rays) to evaluate joint structure and severity
This thorough process ensures an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment strategy.
Conservative treatment options include:
- Switching to roomier, supportive footwear
- Using custom orthotics or padding to relieve pressure
- Incorporating toe stretches and strengthening exercises
If the condition has progressed and conservative care isn’t effective, surgical intervention may be necessary.
Surgical treatments may involve:
- Tendon release or lengthening to correct muscle imbalance
- Removing a portion of the bone or realigning the joint can help restore a straighter toe position.
These are typically outpatient procedures, allowing for a quicker recovery with a structured follow-up plan. Dr. Miyazaki will explain each option and guide you through your recovery journey step by step.
Preventing Hammertoes
Many hammertoes are preventable with the right care. Here are a few ways to protect your foot health:
- Wear properly fitted shoes with a wide toe box and low heels
- Perform regular foot exercises to keep muscles balanced and flexible
- Don’t ignore early toe discomfort or visible changes—prompt evaluation can prevent the condition from worsening.
Early intervention is key to preventing permanent joint changes and reducing the need for surgery.
Dr. Yuko Miyazaki’s Personalized Approach to Hammertoe Treatment
With decades of experience, Dr. Yuko Miyazaki is a trusted Berkeley podiatrist known for her comprehensive and compassionate care. Her treatment philosophy focuses on patient education, individualized care plans, and conservative therapies whenever possible.
Patients receive high-quality, evidence-based care in a welcoming, modern environment.
Take the First Step Toward Relief
Hammertoes can limit your movement and daily comfort, but effective treatment can help you step away from pain and back into your routine. Whether you’re noticing early signs or seeking advanced treatment, Dr. Yuko Miyazaki is here to help restore your comfort and foot function.
Call our Berkeley, CA office today at (510) 647-3744 or schedule your appointment online and take the first step toward healthier feet.