How do hammertoes happen?

According to the Mayo Clinic: Hammertoes are caused by foot deformities because of an imbalance of muscles, tendons or ligaments that keep the toes straight. 

What can be done for hammertoes?

The Mayo Clinic suggests changing footwear and shoe inserts.  If these don't work they suggest surgery.  Are those the only solutions?  No

If you have had hammertoes you have probably tried different shoes and inserts and they may have worked or they may have not worked.  

Hammertoes are often caused by the plantar facia that is attached from the heel to the toes.  If the foot is not moving properly or the calves are tight (facia connects to one another), this will pull on the facia on the toes pulling them and dropping the arch of the foot.  

What can be done about hammertoes?

Hammertoes can be helped with joint movement, fascia and soft tissue work and changes in gait.  This may mean figuring out how you land on your feet and what muscles are being strained when walking.  

Chiropractic can help with pain and function of the feet, calves, ankles, knees, hips and low back.  All of these work together in what is called the "kinetic chain".  Getting these to all work in unison and correctly will help relieve tension in the toes and feet.  

Dr. Amie Gregory, DC, CCEP, ANF is a San Francisco, CA and San Carlos, CA chiropractor that understands full body health.  She works with athletes, expectant moms, office workers and everyone else in between.  Contact our San Francisco, CA chiropractic office or San Carlos, CA chiropractic office today!

Sources:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hammertoe-and-mallet-toe/symptoms-causes/syc-20350839#:~:text=Hammertoe%20and%20mallet%20toe%20are,the%20development%20of%20these%20deformities.