Hammertoe is a common complaint of the foot. The abnormal shape of the foot can cause rubbing and pain when wearing shoes. This can lead to secondary problems such as cramps and ulcers. If you have this condition, you may need hammertoe surgery, although other treatments are available.
What Is Hammertoe?
Hammertoe is an abnormal buckling of the toes. It is characterized by the big toe being bent at the middle joint. This can cause cramp,corns, calluses, ulcers and infections on pressure points where the buckled joints protrude and rub against the shoes. Hammertoe can make walking painful and difficult. It also alters the appearance of the foot.
What Causes Hammertoe?
Hammertoe is caused when joints in the toe becomes fully or partially dislocated. It can be triggered by conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, bunions, flat feet or high arched feet. Wearing badly fitting or inappropriate shoes can also be a factor. Hammertoe tends to run in families and is more common in women who wear tighter, narrower shoes.
Hammertoe Treatments And Surgery
A range of hammertoe treatments can be used to reduce pain and discomfort. Simple steps like avoiding high heels or wearing shoes with a deep toe box are a good idea. Toe props can be used to straighten the bent toe and padding can be used to protect the area that rubs. Your podiatrist may also advise simple exercises or orthotics. In some cases, they may advise you consider hammertoe surgery. It is important to seek treatment early on, because with hammertoe, the abnormal joint can become fixed over time. This immobility makes it more difficult to treat.
If you are suffering from hammertoe, please contact us. We can book you a consultation with a podiatrist and advise you on the most suitable course of hammertoe treatments.
