Hammer & Claw Toe

Our team has helped countless patients find relief from Hammer & Claw Toes, and we're here to help you too!

Have you heard of hammertoes? They're toes that bend in an unusual way, and they can become stiff and painful over time. Ouch! You might even get corns and blisters from the rubbing against your shoes. They're named after the hammers in a piano because they look similar. But don't worry, at Pomona Valley Podiatry Group, we're not just here to treat your hammertoes in Pomona, CA, and the La Verne and Claremont, CA, areas.

We want to help you understand what's causing your foot or ankle pain, so you can choose the best treatment plan for you. Let's get you feeling better soon!

What Causes Hammer & Claw Toe

Hey there! Did you know that toes can naturally curve due to muscle contractions? However, sometimes these contractions can become permanent and cause hammertoes. Here are some of the factors that can contribute to this condition:

  • Rheumatoid arthritis: This inflammatory condition can lead to joint damage and deformities, including hammertoes.

  • Neurological conditions: Conditions such as degenerative disc disease, cerebral palsy, or stroke can affect the nerves and muscles in the foot, causing them to contract and lead to hammertoes.

  • Structural issues in the foot: If you have a high arch or flat feet, you may be more prone to developing hammertoes.

  • Wearing narrow-toed or high-heeled shoes: Shoes that squeeze your toes together or put pressure on the front of your foot can contribute to the development of hammertoes.

  • Diabetic neuropathy: Nerve damage caused by diabetes can affect the muscles in the foot and lead to hammertoes.

  • Prolonged bed rest: If you are bedridden or unable to move for an extended period of time, the muscles in your foot may weaken and contract, leading to hammertoes.

  • Acute injuries: Injuries such as a broken, jammed, or dislocated toe can cause the muscles in the foot to contract and contribute to the development of hammertoes.

It's important to note that while some of these factors are beyond our control, there are steps we can take to prevent or manage hammertoes. If you think you may be experiencing hammertoes, it's a good idea to talk to a healthcare professional about your options for treatment and prevention.

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Signs and Symptoms of Hammertoes

Did you know that hammertoes can cause more than just a noticeable change in the shape of your toes? Here are some of the symptoms you might experience if you have hammertoes:

  • Hammer shape: The most obvious symptom of hammertoes is the toe's bent shape that resembles a hammer or a claw.

  • Difficulty walking: Hammertoes can make it difficult to walk normally, as the bent toe can cause pain or discomfort when putting pressure on the foot.

  • Corns and calluses: The bent toe can also rub against your shoes, causing corns and calluses to form on the affected area.

  • Limited movement: Over time, hammertoes can become stiff and inflexible, making it hard to wiggle your toes or flex your foot. This limited range of motion can affect your overall mobility and lead to discomfort.

  • Pain and discomfort: Hammertoes can cause pain and discomfort in the affected toe or throughout the foot, especially when standing or walking for extended periods of time.

If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's important to talk to a healthcare professional about your options for treatment and management of hammertoes. Remember, early intervention can help prevent the condition from worsening and improve your quality of life.

The Best Non-surgical Treatments For Hammertoes

If you're suffering from hammertoes, you may be wondering what treatment options are available to you. Here are some non-surgical treatments that may help:

  • Switch to comfortable shoes: Wearing shoes with a wider toe box and lower heel can help relieve pressure on the affected toes and reduce pain.

  • Use pads or custom insoles: Special pads or insoles can be used to cushion the toes and prevent friction, helping to alleviate pain and discomfort.

  • Realign the toes: Splints or pads can be used to straighten and realign the affected toes, which can improve their function and reduce pain.

  • Apply over-the-counter creams: There are several creams and ointments available that can provide relief from the pain associated with corns, blisters, or calluses caused by hammertoes.

  • Exercise and stretch: Specific exercises and stretches can help strengthen the muscles in the foot and improve flexibility, reducing the likelihood of developing hammertoes or preventing the condition from worsening.

It's important to note that while some of these factors are beyond our control, there are steps we can take to prevent or manage hammertoes. If you think you may be experiencing hammertoes, it's a good idea to talk to a healthcare professional about your options for treatment and prevention.

6 Reasons To Choose Pomona Valley Podiatry Group

  • Over 150,000 Lives Transformed - Pomona Valley Podiatry Group, a well-established practice since 1984 in the Inland Empire, has successfully enhanced the lives of over 150,000 individuals.

  • Pain Relief at First Visit - After your initial consultation, we will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan and begin treatment promptly, should you choose to.

  • Same-Day Consultations & Treatment - At Pomona Valley Podiatry Group, we prioritize the swift alleviation of our patients' pain, which is why we offer same-day appointments and expedited treatment options, depending on your individual circumstances.

  • Flexible Financing - At Pomona Valley Podiatry Group, we are committed to ensuring our patients' satisfaction and offer various flexible payment options to cater to their individual financial needs.

  • Trusted Authority - Dr. O'Neill, the founder of Pomona Valley Podiatry Group, is a well-respected figure in the podiatry community. As an Associate Professor for the California College of Podiatric Medicine, he is dedicated to educating the next generation of podiatrists.

  • Money-Back Guarantee on Orthotics - As part of our commitment to your satisfaction and well-being, we offer a money-back guarantee on our custom orthotics.

From Consultation to Treatment

What to Expect at Your First Podiatry Visit

We're excited to see you at your appointment! We want to make sure you feel comfortable and well-informed, so don't hesitate to ask us any questions about our treatments, our office, or even our payment options. Our goal is to help you get back to living your life free of pain, so let's work together to make that happen!

  • Discuss your foot health goals

  • Provide x-rays if required

  • Complete foot examination

  • Discover your options

  • Start a custom treatment plan

"Dr O’Neil was professional and I was very comfortable with him"

—Karen J.

The reviews showcased are authentic feedback from patients who have received treatment at Pomona Valley Podiatry Group. While individual outcomes may differ, these reviews do not claim to reflect the results of all patients.

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  • One of our team will call you for FREE and answer any questions or concerns you may have about your uncomfortable foot condition.

Where to Find Pomona Valley Podiatry Group

Serving Pomona, La Verne and Claremont, CA, areas

1212 North Park Avenue Pomona, CA 91768

Mon - Thur: 8:15am – 5pm & Fri: 8:15am – 12pm

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1212 N Park Ave, Pomona, CA 91768, USA

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