Toe deformities like hammertoe can be painful, uncomfortable, and difficult to walk with when they are bent downward at the middle joint. Hammertoe is a common foot deformity that affects the toes. In addition to corns, calluses, and blisters on the affected toes, hammertoe can cause other problems such as corns, calluses, and blisters. In this blog post, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of hammertoe.
Hammertoe can be caused by various factors that affect the balance and alignment of the muscles, tendons, and ligaments that support the toes. Some of the common causes are:
Wearing shoes that are too tight, narrow, or pointed, which force the toes into a bent position and put pressure on the joints.
Having a high arch or a flat foot, which can alter the distribution of weight and stress on the foot.
Having an injury or trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, jamming, or breaking it.
Having arthritis or other inflammatory conditions that affect the joints and tissues of the foot.
Having a genetic predisposition or a family history of hammertoe.
Symptoms of hammertoe may vary depending on the severity and type of hammertoe. It usually affects the second toe or third toe. There are two types of hammertoe: flexible and rigid. Flexible hammertoe is less severe and can still be straightened by manual pressure. Rigid hammertoe is more severe and cannot be moved at all. Some of the common symptoms are:
A toe that bends downward at the middle joint
Pain and stiffness in the affected toe
Difficulty in moving or flexing the toe
Redness, swelling, and inflammation in the toe joint
Corns or calluses on the top or side of the toe
Blisters or ulcers on the tip of the toe
Difficulty in wearing shoes or walking
In order to diagnose hammertoe, your doctor will examine your foot and toes for signs of deformity, inflammation, and skin problems. He or she may also ask you about your health history, family history, and footwear habits. If bone damage or arthritis is suspected, imaging tests may be ordered.
The treatment of hammertoe depends on the type, severity, and cause of the condition. The main goals of treatment are to relieve pain, improve function, and prevent further complications. Some of the treatment options are:
Changing your footwear to shoes that are comfortable, roomy, and supportive. Avoid shoes that are too tight, narrow, or high-heeled.
Using shoe inserts or pads to cushion and protect your toes from friction and pressure. You can also use toe splints or straps to hold your toes in a straight position.
Doing exercises and stretches to strengthen and loosen your toe muscles. You can also massage your toes to improve blood circulation and reduce inflammation.
Taking over-the-counter pain relievers or anti-inflammatory drugs to ease discomfort and swelling. You can also apply ice packs or warm compresses to your toes to reduce pain.
Consulting a podiatrist (a foot specialist) for professional advice and treatment. A podiatrist may prescribe custom-made orthotics (shoe inserts) or recommend surgery if other treatments fail.
As a last resort for hammertoe treatment, surgery is usually considered the only option when conservative treatments fail or cause significant disability. Surgery involves cutting and realigning the bones, tendons, and ligaments of the toe to restore its normal shape and function. A variety of procedures are available to treat hammertoe, depending on its severity and type. The most common procedures include:
Arthroplasty: This involves removing a small piece of bone from the toe joint to allow it to straighten.
Arthrodesis: This involves fusing two bones together with pins, screws, or wires to stabilize the toe joint.
Tendon transfer: This involves moving a tendon from one part of the foot to another to correct the muscle imbalance that causes hammertoe.
Joint implant: This involves inserting an artificial joint into the toe joint to replace the damaged one.
Typically, hammertoe surgery is performed under local anesthesia as an outpatient procedure and requires a few weeks to a few months of recovery time, depending on the type of surgery and your overall health condition. You may need to wear a special shoe or boot after surgery to protect your foot and allow it to heal properly. You may also require physical therapy to regain your toe's range of motion and strength.
Hammertoe can be prevented or delayed by taking some simple measures to keep your feet healthy and comfortable. Some of the prevention tips are:
Choose shoes that fit well and have enough room for your toes to move. Avoid shoes that are too tight, narrow, or high-heeled.
Wear socks that are soft, breathable, and cushioned. Avoid socks that are too thick, tight, or rough.
Trim your toenails regularly and keep them clean. Avoid cutting them too short or too curved.
Moisturize your feet and toes daily to prevent dryness and cracking. Avoid using products that contain alcohol or harsh chemicals.
Check your feet and toes regularly for any signs of injury, infection, or deformity. Seek medical attention if you notice any changes or problems.
Toe deformities such as hammertoe can cause pain, discomfort, and difficulty walking. In addition, corns, calluses, and blisters can develop on affected toes due to hammertoe. A physical examination of the foot and toes can diagnose hammertoe. Hammertoe can be caused by a number of factors that affect the balance and alignment of the muscles, tendons, and ligaments that support the toes. In order to relieve pain, improve function, and prevent further complications, hammertoe is treated depending on its type, severity, and cause. Changing your footwear, using shoe inserts or pads, exercising and stretching, taking pain relievers or anti-inflammatory drugs, consulting a podiatrist, or undergoing surgery are just a few of the treatment options. Keeping your feet healthy and comfortable can prevent or delay hammertoe.
