Hammer Toes

What is a Hammertoe?

A hammertoe is the bending of the toe at the joint. This can affect any toe, but it is mostly common in second through fifth toes. They are more common in women then men. There are two types of hammer toes, Rigid and flexible. Flexible are less serious and can be diagnosed and treated in its early developmental stage. They are called flexible because they can still move at the effected joint. Rigid is more serious and at a more developed stage. They occur in patients with severe arthritis or when left too long before getting treatment. At this stage, the tendons have become more rigid and the joint has become stiff and possibly fused.

Symptoms

• Pain upon pressure at the top of the bent toe from footwear.
• The formation of corns on the top of the joint.
• Redness and swelling at the joint contracture.
• Restricted or painful motion of the toe joint.
• Pain in the ball of the foot at the base of the affected toe.

A hammertoe is formed when there is an abnormal balance in the muscles of the toes. This abnormal balance leads to increased pressure on the tendon and joints of the toes leading to the bending of the toes. Other factors that cause hammertoes include trauma, hereditary, and arthritis. Wearing shoes that are too tight or cause the toes to squeeze together can also cause hammertoes to form.

What Can You Do for Relief?

• Wear wider shoes with deep toe box to help reduce pressure on the toes.
• You may use non medicated pads to help cushion the toe from pressure.
• Apply ice to the area to bring down the inflammation.
• Avoid heels more than two inches tall.

Treatment Options

All of the above suggestions are only a temporary relief from the pain and pressure of the hammertoes. It is important to call us and make an appointment as soon as possible for a complete personal consultation and treatment options.

The treatment options for hammertoes vary depending on the severity of the deformity. It is important to seek treatment at the early development of the hammertoe because once the deformity becomes rigid, then non surgical options become less of an option.

As part of the treatment plan, your Podiatrist will take an X-ray to evaluate the degree of involvement and to recommend a treatment plan specific to your needs. Non surgical treatment options include padding and strapping, anti inflammatory medications, and custom made orthotics. When all conservative treatments fail or if the deformity is too rigid, then the only other option is surgical intervention.

There are several surgical procedures available for correction of hammertoes. Less severe deformities require simple removal of bony prominence while more severe deformities require more complex intervention. The ultimate goal for any procedure is restore normal alignment and relieve pain.