Hammering Those Toes Back Into Shape

Podiatrist in the operating room performing hammertoe correction surgery. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Do you want to have glamorous, well-functioning feet? If you said yes, then you have to get rid of those hammertoes. Hammertoe is a deformity that affects the second, third and fourth toe and bends them so they appear like a hammer. If caught and treated early, when the toes are still flexible, treatment is simple. However, if left untreated the toes become fixed and surgery is required.

Hammertoes may be the result of shoes that do not fit properly or perhaps a muscle problem that keeps the toes in a position of constant contraction. If the toes are left in the contracted position for prolonged periods of time, it is difficult for the muscles to straighten them. As the toes remain in the contracted position, calluses or corns may develop on the tops of the toes at the middle joint. The area then becomes red, raised, and sore making it difficult to find shoes that do not further irritate the condition.

You may wish to consult with Dr. Bowman if you notice your second, third and fourth toes are showing the following signs:

• Red and raised at the middle joint
• Developing corns or calluses on top or the tips of the toes
• Swollen
• Rubbing on the inside top of your shoes

In order to treat this deformity, you should opt for a softer shoe with a roomier toe box. Shoes must be one-half inch longer than your longest toe. For many people this is not the great toe that is often used in the pinch test, but rather the second toe. Preferably do not wear high heels or shoes that cramp or constrict your toes, as this aggravates the condition. A shoe repair shop may be able to stretch your shoe to more comfortably accommodate this deformity. There are also exercises that can be done at home that may help stretch and strengthen your muscles, or Dr. Bowman may suggest a simple strapping device that can be utilized as well as cushioning.  

If non-surgical methods fail to correct your hammertoes they can be surgically treated as an outpatient. Recovery time is normally short although the end result may have toes slightly longer or shorter than before. The exact surgical procedure will depend on the severity of your case. Call Dr. Bowman at (713) 467-8886 for an appointment. He can evaluate you and discuss your options.

References:
 
http://www.houstonfootspecialists.com/library/1870/Hammertoes.html
http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=a00160

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