Hammer toe
Understanding hammertoes: Causes, symptoms and effective physiotherapy treatments
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The information on this page has been checked by the physiotherapist Andreas Mondl.
What are hammer toes?
Hammertoes are a deformity of the toes in which the middle joint of one or more toes curves upwards, creating an abnormal curvature. This deformity often affects the second to fourth toes and can make it difficult to wear shoes or walk normally. The most common causes include an imbalance in the toe muscles, wearing shoes that are too tight, osteoarthritis and foot injuries. People with diabetes or arthritis in particular have a higher risk of developing hammertoes.
Common symptoms of hammer toes
The symptoms of hammertoes can range from mild discomfort to severe pain and can have a significant impact on quality of life. The most common symptoms include
- Pain or pressure on the affected toes, especially when wearing shoes
- Callus formation on the toes or under the balls of the feet
- Inflammation and redness
- Stiff or immobile toe joints
- Difficulty walking or wearing shoes
These symptoms can lead to a deterioration in mobility and make everyday activities such as walking or standing more difficult.
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How can physiotherapy help with hammertoes?
Physiotherapy is an effective way to relieve the discomfort of hammertoes and achieve long-term improvements. Mediphysio offers a range of treatment options specifically designed for hammertoes, including:
What exercises can you do at home?
To support physiotherapy, it is important to do regular exercises at home. Some helpful exercises for hammer toes are
- Toe stretching: Gently pull the affected toes in the opposite direction to stretch the muscles.
- Reaching exercises: Use your toes to pick up small objects such as towels or marbles. This helps to strengthen the muscles.
- Walk barefoot: Walk barefoot on soft surfaces as often as possible to promote the natural foot muscles.
It is advisable to always consult a doctor or physiotherapist if you are unsure or in pain in order to perform the exercises correctly and avoid injury.
Why choose Mediphysio in Vienna for the treatment of hammertoes?
Mediphysio is your practice for specialized physiotherapy in Vienna. Our experienced team uses modern techniques and approaches to ensure that each treatment is tailored to the individual needs of our patients. Whether you visit our practice or use our home physiotherapy service, we place great emphasis on patient-centered treatment that improves your mobility and quality of life.
FAQ Hammer toes
Frequently asked questions about the treatment of hammertoes
What are the most common causes of hammertoes?
Hammertoes are often caused by tight shoes, muscle imbalances or conditions such as arthritis.
How can physiotherapy help with hammertoes?
Physiotherapy relieves pain, improves mobility and strengthens the foot muscles to correct the deformity.
What physiotherapy treatments are available for hammertoes?
Treatments include manual therapy, stretching exercises, strengthening exercises and posture analysis.
How long does it take to recover from hammertoes with physiotherapy?
The duration of recovery depends on the severity of the deformity, but can take several weeks to months.
Are there home remedies that help with hammer toes?
Home remedies such as walking barefoot, stretching exercises and wearing comfortable shoes can alleviate the symptoms.
Can physiotherapy help to reduce pain from hammertoes?
Yes, targeted physiotherapy can relieve pain and improve the mobility of the toes.
Is physiotherapy safe for hammertoes during pregnancy?
Yes, physiotherapy can be adapted to the specific needs of pregnant women to relieve pain.
What should I avoid after physiotherapy sessions for hammertoes?
Avoid tight shoes and excessive strain on the affected toes so as not to impair healing.
How often should I have physiotherapy for hammertoes?
The frequency of the sessions depends on the severity of the hammertoes; weekly sessions are generally recommended.
What are the long-term benefits of physiotherapy for hammertoes?
Physiotherapy improves mobility, reduces pain and helps to prevent future problems.