1. Abnormality Linked to Footwear
Hammertoes are a foot abnormality marked by an unnatural bending of the toe. Generally a product of ill-fitting footwear, other causes of hammertoes include changes in your foot's structure or in the way you walk, foot trauma, such as breaking or injuring your toe, heredity and arthritis. Left untreated, hammertoes grow more rigid and less responsive to treatment.
2. Detection Made Easy
Hammertoes' distinct characteristics and classic symptoms make detection easy. Sometimes the affected toe's joints bend upward and resemble a "hammer" or "claw." Sufferers also may experience discomfort and difficulty moving their toe. In some cases, skin buildup, such as corns or calluses, develops underneath the toe or on surrounding areas of your foot when the inflamed joint rubs against your shoe. Hammertoes are most common in the second toe but can affect any of the middle digits.
3. Early Intervention Is Best
Untreated hammertoes can affect your gait. Simple preventative measures can reduce or even eliminate the problem. Begin by wearing shoes that fit properly. Purchase footwear in mid-afternoon, before your feet swell. Your feet change over time so measure both feet, particularly their width. If necessary, have your shoes stretched. Look for styles that offer a wide toe box, soft soles, low heels and do not cramp or squeeze your toes. Strapped or laced shoes provide comfort, roominess and adjustability. Cushioned pads (orthotics) or other custom designed foot pads, such as splints or slings, placed inside your shoes alleviate pain and discomfort and alter your toes' position within your shoe. Generic versions are available in most drug and retail stores.
4. Surgery as a Solution
Consult with your physician about surgery, especially if your hammertoes are taut and stiff. Limited elasticity in your toe allows your doctor to make a slit, liberate the tendon and straighten out your toe. Stiff toes require a more extensive procedure. The surgeon slits (or adjusts) the tendons, removes portion of bone to straighten the toe. Pins may join bones together during the healing process. Normally this type surgery does not require a hospital stay, since it's an out patient procedure.
5. Non-Invasive Treatment Options
If surgery is not for you, there are other ways to treat hammertoes. Have any skin buildups trimmed by a podiatrist, or your physician, to avoid serious problems or infection. Consider covering corns and calluses with prescribed or over-the-counter foot pads, to reduce irritation. Anti-inflammatory medications, like ibuprofen or aspirin, or a corticosteroid injection, relieve tenderness. Exercise your toes regularly by stretching their muscles and picking up a small object, such as a pencil or marbles, with your barefoot.
