What is Hammertoe and How to Treat It?

Understanding Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a condition that causes the toes – usually the second, third, or fourth – to bend or curl downward instead of pointing forward. This can occur due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that usually keep the toe straight.

Causes of Hammertoe

Several factors can contribute to the development of hammertoe, including:

• Footwear: Wearing tight, narrow shoes or high heels that crowd the toes.
• Injury: Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing or jamming.
• Genetics: Inherited foot structure.
• Arthritis: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis can affect toe alignment.
• Muscle Imbalance: Due to neurological conditions like stroke or diabetes.

Symptoms of Hammertoe

Common symptoms to watch for include:

• A toe that appears bent or curled.
• Pain or irritation when wearing shoes.
• Corns or calluses on the top of the middle joint of the toe or on the tip of the toe.
• Redness or inflammation.
• Restricted or painful motion of the affected toe.

How to Treat Hammertoe

Non-Surgical Treatments

For mild cases of hammertoe, non-surgical treatments can be quite effective:

Footwear Adjustments

• Choose the Right Shoes: Opt for shoes with a wide toe box and avoid high heels.
• Supportive Insoles: Use insoles or orthotic devices to provide more foot support and help redistribute pressure.

Exercises and Physical Therapy

• Toe Exercises: Strengthen and stretch the muscles in your toes through exercises like picking up marbles with your toes or gently pulling your toes to stretch them.
• Foot Massage: Regularly massage your feet to relieve muscle tension.

Padding and Taping

• Toe Pads: Use pads designed to cushion corns and calluses, reducing friction and pain.
• Taping: Tape the toes into a normal position to relieve discomfort and prevent further bending.

Medications

• Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: Medications such as ibuprofen can alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.

We stock a number of items in the clinic to assist with Hammertoe, such as insoles and toe pads. If online shopping is more convenient, our friends at Foot Health Solutions also stock a range of items, including the Pedifix Budin Toe Splint and Digital Gel Caps.

 Surgical Treatments

For more severe cases, where non-surgical methods don’t provide relief, surgery may be necessary:

Types of Surgery

• Tendon Transfer: Redirecting tendons to pull the toe into the correct position.
• Joint Resection: Removing part of the joint to make the toe straight.
• Fusion: Fusing the bones together to straighten the toe permanently.

Post-Surgery Care

• Rest and Recovery: Allow time for healing and follow your doctor or podiatrists recommendations carefully.
• Physical Therapy: Engage in rehabilitation exercises to regain strength and flexibility in the toe.

Conclusion

Hammertoe can be a painful and inconvenient condition, but with the right treatment plan, you can manage symptoms effectively and improve your quality of life. Consult with your podiatrist as to whether your condition can be treated with non-surgical methods or if you require surgical intervention.

If you’re experiencing any foot or lower limb pain, or have any concerns about the health of your feet, don’t hesitate to reach out to our friendly team on 5522 1230.