When you hear the word “orthotics,” what comes to mind? Most likely, you think of medical devices that are used to correct or improve foot function. While this is true, orthotics can also provide a number of key benefits for those with hammer toes. Here are five of the most important ones.
They Help Improve Your Mobility
If you have hammer toes, you know how painful and frustrating they can be. Your toe may bend upward in an unnatural way and rub against your shoe, making it difficult to walk or even stand. Orthotics for hammer toes can help improve your mobility by providing support for your toe and preventing it from rubbing against your shoe.
Orthotics are devices that are placed in your shoes to help support and align your feet and legs. They can be custom-made or purchased over-the-counter. Hammer toe orthotics work by helping to correct the position of your toes, which takes the pressure off of the affected joint and helps to ease the pain.
They Take Pressure Off The Affected Toe
One way to help relieve the pain and pressure of the hammer toe is to wear orthotics. Orthotics are devices that can be inserted into your shoes to help take the pressure off the affected toe. They may also help to realign your toes so that they are not rubbing. When hammer toe occurs, it is important to take measures to reduce the pressure on the affected toe. This can help to relieve pain and prevent further damage to the toe.
If left untreated, the toe joint will continue to deform. The toe muscles will get weaker and the tendons will begin to tighten. The joint damage and muscle imbalance cause the toe to point upwards, which forces it to rub against your shoe. This constant pressure soon irritates the toe, causing pain and swelling.
Corn, a round patch of thickened, dead skin, may develop on top of the affected toe joint or on the tip of the toe. You may also develop a callus or thickened skin under your foot where it rubs against your shoe. Untreated hammertoe can lead to difficulty walking or picking up objects with your toes. It can also result in other foot problems such as ulcers (open sores), blisters, pain in the balls of your feet, ingrown toenails, bunions (a larger big toe joint), and muscle imbalance in your foot.
They Stabilize The Joint And Prevent Further Deformity
Hammer toe orthotics are devices that are placed over the foot to help stabilize the joint and prevent further deformity. The orthotics work by holding the toe in place and keeping it from bending at the middle joint. This helps to reduce pain and keep the toe from getting worse.
Hammer toe orthotics can be made from a variety of materials, including foam, gel, or plastic. They should be worn during activities that put stress on the feet, such as walking or running. It is important to consult with a doctor before using any type of orthotic device, as they may not be suitable for all types of hammertoe.
They Improve Your Balance
When your big toe points down and crowds the other toes, it’s called hammertoe. This deformity can cause pain and difficulty moving the affected toe. People with hammertoe may also have problems with balance.
Orthotics, or shoe inserts, can help correct imbalances in the foot that lead to hammertoe. They can also provide support and cushioning for the foot. In some cases, orthotics may be all that’s needed to treat hammertoe. In other cases, they may be used along with other treatments, such as splinting or surgery.
They Reduce Inflammation
One of the main reasons people develop hammer toe is due to inflammation and irritation of the toe joint. When the toe joint becomes inflamed, it can cause the toe to bend and become misshapen. Hammer toe orthotics are designed to help reduce this inflammation and provide relief from pain and discomfort.
There are two main types of hammer toe orthotics: splints and pads. Splints are usually worn at night, while pads can be worn during the day or night. Both types of orthotics work by holding the toe in a correct position and keeping it from rubbing against shoes. This helps to reduce inflammation and pain.
Pads are available in a variety of sizes and shapes. They can be made from gel, foam, or fabric. Splints are usually made from plastic or metal. Both types of orthotics can be trimmed to fit the individual’s foot.
If you are suffering from hammer toes, orthotics may be the perfect solution for you. Not only do they provide relief from pain and discomfort, but they can also help improve your mobility and balance.
Contact us today to learn more about how orthotics can benefit you and to schedule an appointment with one of our podiatrists.
Remember, The 3 Arches of Your Feet Still Need Support!
Maybe you have already felt the first symptoms of balance disorders or you want to prevent them from appearing in the first place. Consider getting a foot orthotic device or simply take care of your feet. Start by washing them thoroughly with a gentle soap whenever you take a shower. Being a very complex support system, your feet are your first line of defense against balance-related issues, since their arches provide you with the stability you need in your daily life. It’s time to put your foot down and push back against balance issues. With both feet on the ground, dedicate yourself to keeping them comfortable and healthy. Give us a call and we will scan your feet to make you custom orthotic inserts.
The Shoe Doctor has specialized in providing custom orthotics for 20 years. The right orthotic insoles can greatly reduce foot, knee and hip pain while increasing performance and comfort. Russell at The Shoe Doctor will help educate and assist you in finding the perfect solution for your particular situation. We will create a 3D map of your feet and make custom orthotics for your hiking boots, everyday shoes, and everything else in between. These orthotics, along with our expert advice, will get you using orthotics like a pro, and have you performing at the peak of your abilities in no time! If you are in the San Francisco Bay Area, give The Shoe Doctor a call to get the best custom orthotics in the area! We are here to assist you, schedule your free consultation here!
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