Hammertoes are a bending or contracture of the toes, usually occurring in the first joint of the toes. They occur in any age group, though they are usually progressive with age. They are more common in females than males, most likely due to the difference in shoes that we wear.
Do bad shoes really cause hammertoes? Certain shoes definitely contribute to the formation of hammertoes, but they are usually not the only cause. Other factors are also contributory, such as heredity, muscle imbalances and weaknesses, and toe injuries. Shoes with high heels place the foot in a position with the toes bent up at the ball of the foot, a dorsiflexed or “up” position. When these shoes are worn on a regular basis, they can contribute to permanent contracture and the development of hammertoes. We recommend considering more sensible shoes, avoiding heels over two inches and shoes that crowd the toes. Listen to your feet: if your feet are really hurting, shop around for some better shoes.
Do hammertoes hurt? Most hammertoes will have some pain associated with them. As the toes contract, the top of the toe becomes more prominent and will often rub in shoes and become painful. The rubbing in shoes will develop a corn, or callus, on top of the toe. The contracted joint becomes inflamed and sore, which leads to the joint stiffening over time. We often see pain at the base of the toe, on the bottom of the foot. In fact, this is often one of the first complaints we see is pain at the base of the toe. This usually indicates there has been some tearing of the structures that hold the toe in the normal position. Over time, the toe starts to drift up and develop the hammertoe.
How are hammertoes treated? Treatment for hammertoes begins with using pads and changing shoes as needed. We recommend non-medicated hammertoe pads to alleviate pressure on the affected area. Strapping and splinting of the toes can also be used to relieve symptoms and hold the toe in a straighter position. Regular trimming of the corn, or callus, can help provide temporary relief. Orthotics are thought to help reduce the progression of hammertoe deformities. If pain and deformity persist in spite of conservative treatments, then surgery is offered to realign and straighten the toe. Hammertoe surgery is a very intricate procedure that requires careful detail to balancing the forces in the toe.
For more information, please call 661-260-1180.