Hammer toes are one of the most common toe deformities, and they’re caused when one or more toes curl inwards unnaturally. While they may not always require treatment, orthotics can be a great way to manage hammer toes and prevent them from getting worse. In this article, we’ll walk you through all the basics you need to know about orthotics for hammer toes. We’ll cover what causes hammer toes, how orthotics can help, and some of the different types of orthotics available. By the end of this article, you’ll have a good understanding of whether or not orthotics are right for you!
What Are Hammer Toes?
A hammer toe is a deformity that causes your toe to bend or curl downward instead of pointing forward. This can cause problems with walking and make it difficult to find shoes that fit properly.
There are two types of hammer toes:
- Flexible hammer toes. These can be straightened with your fingers.
- Rigid hammer toes. These cannot be moved and often require surgery to correct.
Causes of Hammer Toes
There are several factors that can contribute to the development of hammer toes, including:
- Wearing ill-fitting shoes or high heels. This puts pressure on the front of your foot and can force your toes into an unnatural position.
- Having bunions or other foot deformities. This can make it difficult to find shoes that fit properly and may cause your toes to rub against each other.
- Having arthritis or other conditions that cause stiffness in the joints.
- Having diabetes or another condition that causes problems with nerve function. This can lead to muscle imbalance and make it difficult to keep your toes in their natural position.
What Are Orthotics?
Orthotics are devices that are worn in or on the shoes to improve the function and/or alignment of the foot and lower extremities. They may be custom-made, semi-custom, or prefabricated. Orthotics support, align, prevent, and accommodate foot deformities and dysfunctional foot biomechanics.
How Are Orthotics Used To Treat Hammer Toes?
Orthotics are devices that are inserted into shoes to change the way that the foot strikes the ground. Orthotics for hammer toes can provide support for the toe joint and help to decrease the pressure on the toe that is causing the deformity. In some cases, orthotics can also be used to realign the bones in the toe so that they are in a more normal position.
There are several different types of orthotics that can be used to treat hammer toes. Some orthotics are designed to fit into specific types of shoes, such as high heels or running shoes. Others are designed to be worn all the time and can be made from a variety of materials, including plastic, metal, or leather. Orthotics can also be custom-made to fit the specific foot shape of an individual.
Orthotics are usually not the only treatment that is recommended for hammer toes. In many cases, orthotics are used in conjunction with other treatments, such as toe pads or splints. Surgery may also be necessary in some cases to correct the deformity.
Is It Safe To Use Orthotics To Treat Hammer Toes?
While orthotics can be effective in treating this condition, it’s important to consult with a podiatrist or other medical professional before using them. This is because orthotics can sometimes cause additional problems, such as blisters or calluses. In addition, not all orthotics are created equal, so it’s important to choose one that is specifically designed for treating hammer toes. If you’re not sure whether orthotics are right for you, ask your doctor for more information.
How Can I Find A Reputable Orthotics Provider For Hammer Toes?
When you have hammer toes, orthotics can be a great way to alleviate pain and provide support. But with so many orthotics providers out there, how can you be sure you’re choosing the right one? Here are a few things to look for:
- Make sure the provider has experience in treating hammer toes specifically. This will ensure they know exactly what kind of orthotic you need.
- Ask about the materials the orthotics are made from. You want something that’s durable and won’t cause further irritation.
- Get a recommendation from your doctor or another trusted medical professional. They’ll be able to point you in the right direction.
Once you’ve considered these factors, start your search by asking friends, family, and your primary care doctor for recommendations. You can also look online for reviews of orthotics providers in your area. Once you’ve found a few potential providers, call or visit their offices to learn more about their services and what they can do for you.
Hammer toes can be an uncomfortable and unsightly condition, but orthotics may provide relief. If you’re considering using orthotics to treat your hammer toes, it’s important to understand all that they are and how they work. Here at The Shoe Doctor, we want to make sure you have all the information you need to make an informed decision about your treatment. Give us a call today and one of our experts will be happy to answer any questions you have and help you get started on the path to feeling better!
Remember, The 3 Arches of Your Feet Still Need Support!
Maybe you have already felt the first symptoms of balance disorders or you want to prevent them from appearing in the first place. Consider getting a foot orthotic device or simply take care of your feet. Start by washing them thoroughly with a gentle soap whenever you take a shower. Being a very complex support system, your feet are your first line of defense against balance-related issues, since their arches provide you with the stability you need in your daily life. It’s time to put your foot down and push back against balance issues. With both feet on the ground, dedicate yourself to keeping them comfortable and healthy. Give us a call and we will scan your feet to make you custom orthotic inserts.
The Shoe Doctor has specialized in providing custom orthotics for 20 years. The right orthotic insoles can greatly reduce foot, knee and hip pain while increasing performance and comfort. Russell at The Shoe Doctor will help educate and assist you in finding the perfect solution for your particular situation. We will create a 3D map of your feet and make custom orthotics for your hiking boots, everyday shoes, and everything else in between. These orthotics, along with our expert advice, will get you using orthotics like a pro, and have you performing at the peak of your abilities in no time! If you are in the San Francisco Bay Area, give The Shoe Doctor a call to get the best custom orthotics in the area! We are here to assist you, schedule your free consultation here!
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