The team at Palisades Podiatry Associates is available for your foot care needs. When showing signs of Hammertoe in Pomona or Tappan, NY, you need a qualified foot specialist to look at it since the problem won’t resolve on its own. Dr. Barry Schoenberg and Dr. Jeffrey Horowitz are the staff podiatrists who can help you find a solution to this painful problem.

What Is Hammertoe?

Hammertoe is an often painful condition that results from your toe curling down instead of pointing upward. In other words, it begins to resemble the mechanism of a hammer, which is how it got its name. Because your toe is pointing in such an awkward direction, it can make it hard for you to walk comfortably and stand for long periods. This condition often affects women more than men. When you have other existing conditions, such as arthritis and diabetes, you have an even greater risk, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

What Are the Symptoms?

As you develop a hammertoe, you may notice the toe-curling down in the downward direction. Calluses and corns grow because of the continuous friction. The toe may become more stiff and harder to wear in shoes. You will likely see swelling and redness in the area.

How Can a Podiatrist Help?

 When you seek help for hammertoe in Pomona, NY, or Tappan, NY, Dr. Schoenberg and Dr. Horowitz will examine the affected foot and test the toe’s range of motion. If the condition is still in its early stages, they will likely suggest roomier shoes, particularly ones that provide more width for your toes. They also prescribe shoe inserts to relieve pressure so you can stand and walk more comfortably. Doctors may also refer you to a physical therapist, who can work with you to extend the range of the toe.

A last resort used is surgery. If all other methods have failed, your doctors can conduct surgery to help. Surgery can relieve pressure from the tendon that keeps the total curled. In some cases, surgery may involve removing a piece of bone to straighten the toe again.

You don't have to live with foot pain, thanks to a team of trusted podiatrists in your city. Dr. Schoenberg and Dr. Horowitz make up the experienced team at Palisades Podiatry Associates. When you see them about hammertoe in Pomona, NY, or Tappan, NY, they will help you find a solution so that walking and standing won’t be a burden. Call our office in Pomona, NY, at (845) 362-0100 and Tappan, NY, at (845) 359-1200 to make an appointment today.