Hammertoe is a common foot deformity that occurs when one of the toes becomes bent or curled downward, often causing pain and difficulty with movement. Bakersfield hammertoe can be caused by various factors, including genetics, foot injury, or wearing ill-fitting shoes.
While surgery is sometimes necessary to correct a hammertoe, there are also several home remedies that can help alleviate the symptoms and potentially even improve the condition, which includes;
- Stretching exercises
Stretching the muscles in your feet can help alleviate the pain and stiffness associated with hammertoe. Some simple stretches to try include:
- Toe stretches: Using a towel or rubber band, gently pull your affected toe towards you to stretch the muscles and tendons.
- Foot roll: Sit in a chair and place a small ball or roll of tape under the arch of your foot. Slowly roll your foot back and forth to stretch and strengthen the muscles in your foot.
- Toe curl: Sit in a chair with your feet flat on the ground. Curl your toes towards your body, hold for a few seconds, and then release. Repeat this several times to strengthen the muscles in your toes.
- Splinting
Wearing a splint at night can help keep your toes in a straight position and prevent them from becoming more bent or curled. You can purchase a prefabricated splint at a pharmacy or make your own by cutting a foam pool noodle or a piece of foam rubber into a small strip and wrapping it around your affected toe.
- Footwear modification
Wearing shoes that fit correctly and have a wide toe box can help alleviate the pressure on your toes and prevent the development of hammertoe. Avoid shoes with high heels or pointed toes, as these can put additional strain on your toes. Instead, opt for shoes with a low heel and a wide toe box that give your toes plenty of room to move.
- Orthotic inserts
Orthotic inserts are special inserts that you can place in your shoes to provide additional support and cushioning for your feet. They can help alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with hammertoe by taking pressure off the affected toe. You can purchase orthotic inserts at a pharmacy or have them custom-made by a podiatrist.
- Ice and heat therapy
Applying ice or heat to your affected toe can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. To use ice therapy, wrap an ice pack or a bag of frozen vegetables in a towel and apply it to your toe for 15-20 minutes at a time. Soak a washcloth in warm water to use heat therapy and apply it to your toe for 15-20 minutes. You can alternate between ice and heat treatment to help reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
- Over-the-counter pain medication
Taking over-the-counter pain medication, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help reduce the pain and inflammation associated with hammertoe. Be sure to follow the dosage instructions on the label and consult with your doctor if you have any concerns about taking these medications.
Hammertoe is a common foot deformity that can cause pain and difficulty with movement. You may use several home remedies such as stretching exercises, splinting, footwear modification, orthotic inserts, ice and heat therapy, and over-the-counter pain medication to alleviate your pain. However, if your condition is severe or causing significant pain, it is important to see a doctor or podiatrist for proper treatment.
Call Diabetic Foot and Wound Center to book your appointment for hammertoe treatment.
