Living with hammertoes can make everyday activities — from slipping on shoes to walking through your neighborhood — uncomfortable and frustrating. If you’re noticing a toe that bends or curls abnormally, you’re not alone. Hammertoes are one of the most common toe deformities affecting adults, and without proper care, they tend to worsen over time. At Momentum Foot and Ankle in Boynton Beach, we provide expert, personalized treatment to help you find lasting relief and get back to doing what you love.
Dr. Christopher Zimmer, DPM, is a board-eligible, fellowship-trained foot and ankle surgeon with specialized experience evaluating and treating forefoot conditions — including hammertoes at every stage. Dr. Zimmer completed his surgical residency at Baylor Scott & White Medical Center and an advanced Trauma & Reconstruction Fellowship at Westside Regional Medical Center in Plantation, FL. A proud member of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS) and author of peer-reviewed research, Dr. Zimmer brings academic credibility and real-world surgical expertise to every patient visit. His approach is straightforward: educate first, exhaust conservative options, and recommend surgery only when it’s truly the right call.
What Are Hammertoes?
A hammertoe is a deformity that causes one or more of the smaller toes to bend abnormally at the middle joint, creating a hammer-like or claw-like appearance. Hammertoes are classified as either:
- Flexible hammertoes – the joint still moves and responds well to conservative treatment
- Rigid hammertoes – the joint has stiffened and may require surgical correction
Early diagnosis matters. Flexible hammertoes are far easier to manage, which is why we encourage patients not to wait.
Common Symptoms
Hammertoes can cause a range of symptoms, from mild irritation to significant pain. Watch for:
- A toe that bends or curls downward at the middle joint
- Pain or difficulty wearing shoes, especially closed-toe styles
- Corns or calluses forming on top of the toe or on the ball of the foot
- Redness, swelling, or skin irritation at the affected joint
- Reduced range of motion or stiffness in the toe
What Causes Hammertoes?
Hammertoes develop due to a muscle and tendon imbalance that places abnormal pressure on the toe joints over time. Common contributing factors include:
- Shoes that are too tight, narrow, or high-heeled
- Inherited foot structure or genetics
- Bunions pushing the second toe out of alignment
- Previous foot injuries or trauma
- Arthritis or inflammatory conditions
- High arches or flat feet
Treatment Options
At Momentum Foot and Ankle, we take a conservative-first approach. Many patients experience meaningful improvement without surgery.
Non-surgical options may include:
- Custom orthotics or toe padding to reduce pressure
- Toe splints or strapping to improve alignment
- Footwear modifications — wider toe box, lower heel height
- Stretching exercises and physical therapy
- Corn and callus management
Surgical options may include:
- Tendon release or lengthening
- Joint resection (arthroplasty)
- Bone fusion (arthrodesis) for rigid deformities
When conservative care hasn’t provided adequate relief — or when a rigid hammertoe is causing significant pain or limiting daily function — surgical correction may be the right next step. Dr. Zimmer will walk you through your options clearly so you can make an informed, confident decision.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Don’t wait until your hammertoe becomes rigid or severely painful. Earlier intervention means more treatment options and better long-term outcomes. Schedule an evaluation if:
- Your toe is changing shape or becoming harder to straighten
- Wearing shoes has become painful or difficult
- You’re developing sores or skin breakdown on the affected toe
Why Choose Momentum Foot and Ankle?
Patients throughout Palm Beach County choose Momentum Foot and Ankle because of our commitment to honest, personalized care. You’ll receive one-on-one attention from a fellowship-trained surgeon who takes the time to explain your diagnosis, discuss all available options, and support you from your first visit through full recovery. We accept most major insurance plans and offer convenient scheduling designed around your life.
Ready to take the first step toward pain-free toes? Contact us today to schedule your evaluation — call (561) 369-4455. Same-week appointments may be available for urgent concerns.
