At Affinity Wellness in Kelowna, we provide top-notch physiotherapy for hammer toe, prioritizing pain relief, improved function, and deformity prevention in a nurturing environment.

Understanding Hammer Toe

Hammer toe is a foot condition characterized by an abnormal bend in one or more of the second, third, or fourth toes, causing them to curl under painfully. This can result from a variety of factors.

Symptoms of Hammer Toe

Symptoms of hammer toe include:

• Toe Deformity: Visible bending of the toe at the middle joint.
• Pain and Discomfort: Increased pain when walking or wearing shoes, particularly those that are tight or ill-fitting.
• Corns and Calluses: Development of hard skin due to friction against the inside of shoes.
• Restricted Toe Movement: Limited movement at the affected toe joint, which may become more rigid over time.

Causes of Hammer Toe

The primary causes of hammer toe involve:

• Improper Footwear: Tight, narrow shoes that constrict the toes can lead to the development of hammer toes.
• Muscle Imbalance: Weakness in the muscles that control toe movement can cause one toe to press down onto another, forming a hammer toe.
• Genetics: A familial tendency towards foot deformities can increase the likelihood of hammer toes.
• Injury: Trauma to the toe can cause abnormal positioning and lead to hammer toe.

Our Physiotherapy-Focused Approach to Treatment

Affinity Wellness, embraces a physiotherapy-focused approach to treating hammer toe.

Initial Assessment

Your treatment begins with a comprehensive assessment by our skilled physiotherapists, focusing on evaluating the extent of the hammer toe and understanding its impact on your life. This evaluation includes a discussion about your symptoms, lifestyle, footwear, and any contributing factors to your condition.

Personalized Physiotherapy Plan

Based on the assessment, we craft a personalized physiotherapy plan aimed at:

• Improving Toe Mobility: Through manual therapy techniques and specific exercises, we work to increase the range of motion in your affected toe(s).
• Strengthening and Stretching: Targeted exercises are designed to address muscle imbalances, strengthening the foot and lower leg muscles to support correct toe alignment.
• Pain Management: We employ various modalities, such as ice, heat, and soft tissue techniques, to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.
• Education and Support: Our team provides ongoing guidance on footwear choices and lifestyle modifications to prevent future occurrences, ensuring you understand how to maintain foot health long-term.

Explore Our Full Range of Services

Beyond hammer toe correction, Affinity Wellness offers a diverse array of services catering to a wide spectrum of musculoskeletal conditions. We’re committed to enhancing your overall well-being through personalized treatment.

• Registered Massage Therapy
• Physiotherapy Clinic
• Chiropractors
• Kinesiology
• Dietitian
• Clinical Counselling
• Occupational Therapy
• Shockwave Therapy
• Manual Osteopathy

Choose Affinity Wellness for Hammer Toe Care

Opting for Affinity Wellness in Kelowna for your hammer toe treatment means choosing a path led by experienced physiotherapists dedicated to your recovery. We’re here to support you every step of the way, from initial assessment to full recovery, with treatments tailored specifically to your needs.

Say Goodbye to Hammer Toe Discomfort

Embark on your journey to relief and functional improvement with Affinity Wellness. Contact us today to learn more about our hammer toe treatment options and how we can help you walk comfortably and confidently again.

Don’t Let These Foot Conditions Keep You Down

Hammer Toe Treatment Kelowna FAQs

What Is the Difference Between a Hammer Toe and a Mallet Toe?

Hammer toe and mallet toe are both types of toe deformities, but they affect different joints in the toe. A hammer toe occurs when there’s an abnormal bend in the middle joint of the toe, causing the toe to bend downward, resembling a hammer. On the other hand, a mallet toe affects the joint nearest to the toenail, causing the end of the toe to bend down. While both conditions are often caused by muscle imbalances and are more common in the second through fourth toes, their distinct differences lie in the affected joints and the shape they cause the toe to take.

Can Exercises Prevent Hammer Toes From Worsening?

Yes, specific exercises can help prevent hammer toes from worsening by strengthening the toes and improving flexibility. Exercises like towel curls (where you curl a towel toward you using only your toes), marble pickups (picking up marbles with your toes), and toe stretches (gently stretching your toes in the opposite direction of the bend) can be beneficial. These exercises target the muscles around your toes, enhancing muscle balance and preventing the deformity from progressing. However, it’s crucial to combine exercises with appropriate footwear and, if necessary, physiotherapy interventions for optimal outcomes.

How Long Does It Take to See Improvement From Physiotherapy?

The timeline for seeing improvement from physiotherapy for hammer toe varies depending on several factors, including the severity of the condition, the specific treatment plan, and the individual’s commitment to following through with exercises and recommendations. Generally, you may begin to notice improvements in pain and toe flexibility within a few weeks of consistent physiotherapy. However, correcting the deformity or significantly improving toe alignment may take several months of dedicated effort. Regular follow-ups with your physiotherapist can help adjust the treatment plan as needed, ensuring progress toward your goals.

What Should I Look for in Shoes to Help Manage Hammer Toes?

When managing hammer toes, look for shoes with a wide, deep toe box that provides ample room for your toes to move freely without being squeezed or pressed. Shoes should also offer good arch support to help distribute weight evenly across the foot and reduce pressure on the toes. Avoid high heels or shoes with a narrow, pointed toe area, as they can exacerbate the condition by forcing the toes into a cramped position. Opt for shoes made from soft, flexible materials that can accommodate the shape of your foot and any padding you may be using as part of your treatment plan.

Affinity Wellness
1890 Ambrosi Rd Suite 2, Kelowna, BC V1Y 4R9, Canada
(778) 478-0548

Hours:

Monday to Thursday: 8 AM – 8PM
Friday & Saturday: 8 AM – 3 PM
Sunday: Closed