Do You Have Hammertoes?

If you've ever wondered why the tops of your toes hurt when you are wearing shoes, it is most likely due to hammertoes. 

A hammertoe is a bending, or buckling of the toes at the joint.  What happens is, the toe or toes bend at the knuckle, which pushes up against the top of the shoe, and creates pain or irritation. 

There is often a hard corn that develops.  This corn, if left untreated can develop into something more serious, such as a skin ulcer that can become infected. 

Hammertoes are painful, even without the development of corns and calluses because the toe joint may become dislocated.

Hammertoes usually start out as mild, flexible deformities.  However, over time, these toes can become stiff and rigid. 

At this stage, an ulcer is more prone to develop.  This may lead to skin infection or even bone infection. 

Due to the progressive nature of hammertoes, they should receive early treatment.  Hammertoes do not get better without some kind of treatment.

Ladies are usually more affected with toe contractures then men, due to the variety of shoe gear.  The high heel stiletto pump, can cause havoc on a hammertoe. 

So, shoes that crowd the toes, or are ill-fitting, can actually cause the contracture.  Also, a hammertoe may develop if a toe is too long and is forced into a cramped position when a tight shoe is worn. 

Hammertoes can also be inherited, or caused from trauma, such as from a broken toe.

Treatment of hammertoes consists of either conservative options or surgical options.  Your Podiatrist will help select the best treatment for you, based on the severity of the hammertoe and other factors.

The non-surgical options include:

1.  Trimming of the corns and calluses.  This should be done by your Podiatrist to avoid the potential for cuts and infection. 

2. Padding of the toe.  There are some very good types of toe pads, which will act as an interface between the toe and the shoe.  This will take the pressure off the toe joint, and prevent painful corns  from developing.  These don’t work in every case, however.  Your Podiatrist will be able to help you to select the best type of padding for your toe.  DO NOT use the over-the-counter medicated corn remover or pads.  They contain a mild acid, which can cause a blistering of the skin or ulceration.  Only use non-medicated products.

3.  Change your shoes.  This one can be particularly difficult for women.  Women generally do not like to hear this option, because they like their Jimmy Choo’s.  However, pointed toes, shoes that are too short, or high heels will force your toe against the top or front of the shoe causing pain and irritation.  Choose a shoe with a deep toe box, and avoid heels higher than two inches.  A wedge type heel is also recommended.

4.  Orthotics.  Costume made devices placed in your shoe may help control the foot, and aid in the muscle/tendon imbalance that has contributed to the development of hammertoes.

5.  Medications. Anti-inflammatory drugs, such as Motrin, Aleve, Advil, will reduce pain and inflammation.

6.  Splinting or strapping.  Toes can be strapped by your Podiatrist to realign the toe.

 
Finally, surgery may be necessary if conservative options fail. This is more likely needed as the toe becomes rigid.

Surgery involves removing some bone to straighten out the toe.  Your Podiatrist will discuss the surgical options and select the procedure tailored to your needs. 

The considerations include the types of shoes that are worn, the number of toes involved, the activity level, age, the severity of the hammertoe, circulation status, and general health.

For An Example Of What Won't Work,
Watch This Short Video With Dr. DeLuca

If you live in South Florida, and you would like a consultation with me, please call my office at:

In or near Boynton Beach, call 561-734-4867

In or near Wellington, call 561-433-5577.