Hammertoes are a common and painful deformity that is most common in the three middle toes.
Hammertoes are toes that appear to be permanently bent. This condition can make it painful to walk, as well as present other foot conditions. Hammertoes are generally most common in people with diabetes or poor circulation but can be caused by footwear that doesn’t fit properly. Hammertoes can also be caused by foot injuries, bunions, and arthritis.
There are two types of hammertoes:
- Flexible
Flexible hammertoes are if the toe joint is still flexible. This is the less-severe form of hammertoes and presents multiple treatment options.
- Rigid
Rigid hammertoes are when the tendons in the toes become rigid, and press the joint out of alignment. The toes are stuck and cannot move. Rigid hammertoes are the more severe form of hammertoes and generally only surgery can correct them.
Symptoms
Hammertoes are generally quite obvious when they are seen –hammertoes are toes that appear to be bent. Some symptoms are:
- A toe that is upside down in a V shape
- Pain at the top of the bent toe
- Corns forming at the top of the toe joint
- Difficulty moving the toe joint
- Pain in toes while walking
Treatment Options
If hammertoes are still flexible -they might respond to non-surgical treatment options. Some of these options could be:
- Changes In footwear -Changing the shoes that you typically wear could prove to be beneficial, especially if you tend to wear pointed shoes, shoes that are too short or high heels. Wearing shoes that have room for your shoes, and keep them in proper position could benefit your hammertoes.
- Othotic Device – Wearing a special, customized orthotic device that can be placed in your shoe may also be beneficial and help control the muscle or tendon imbalance causing your hammertoe.
- Medication -In some cases, anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen may be recommended to help reduce the pain and swelling.
If your hammertoes have become more severe and are considered to be rigid -you most likely will need to have surgery to help correct the problem. Surgery may also be needed if your hammertoes have developed an open sore.
Prevention
Most cases of hammertoes can be prevented by wearing proper fitting shoes that don’t cram feet or toes. Avoid shoes that:
- Have narrow toes
- Are too tight
- Are too wide
Tags: Foot Care, Prevention