Hammer Toe

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Hammer Toe - What Is It?

When a toe bends or curls downward instead of pointing forward, it is known as hammer toe. As a result, the toe is bent at the middle joint (proximal interphalangeal joint) to the point of looking like a hammer. In contrast to those that are born with hammer toes, these typically develop over time due to arthritis, or ill-fitting shoes, such as tight, pointed heels. Hammer toes are typically flexible and can be corrected with simple measures. In the long run, however, they can become stiff and require surgery if they go untreated.

A Description Of The Causes Of Hammer Toe

A pair of muscles strengthen and bends the toes. Hammer toe is a muscle imbalance that causes increased pressure on the toe tendons and joints. If the toe is bent in one position for long periods of time, the muscles and joints tighten. Hammer toe can be caused by:

• Injuries to the toes
• Rheumatism
• Incorrectly fitting shoes
• Arched ceilings
• An inflamed bunion can cause pressure

There Are Many Symptoms Associated With Hammer Toe

Hammer toes are painful and uncomfortable, especially when walking or attempting to stretch or move the affected toe. Other symptoms include:

• Redness or swelling
• Toes that cannot be straightened
• Walking is difficult
• An accumulation of corns or calluses covering the middle joint of the toe or its tip

Hammer Toe Diagnosis: How Does It Work?

You can be diagnosed with hammer toe by your All-In-One Foot Care Center doctor during a physical examination. If you have suffered a bone, muscle, or ligament injury, an X-ray may be necessary. Those with diabetes or decreased sensations in their feet may need additional testing to determine if there is a neurological component to the tendon imbalance.

An Effective Way To Treat Hammer Toe

Treatments that do not require surgery

• The length of your shoes should be half an inch longer than your longest toe. If your longest toe happens to be your second, you may want to consider wearing a more comfortable shoe. Do not wear tight, narrow, high-heeled shoes.
• Stretching and strengthening your foot muscles can be achieved through specific exercises, such as picking up things with your toes or gently stretching your toes manually.
• Pain relief can be found by using straps, cushions, or nonmedicated corn pads that are available over the counter.

Surgical Procedures

An outpatient procedure using a local anesthetic may be necessary if you are unable to flex your toe. The type of surgery will depend on the type and extent of the deformity.

Infusion:

Hammer toes are most commonly treated surgically with this procedure. Pins, or K-wires, are temporarily inserted at both ends of the bone at the fixed joint. When the ends fuse, the pin is removed. In a newer technique, a rod or screw is permanently inserted at the fixed joint.

Transferring Tendons:

Using tendons transferred from the bottom to the top of the toe, patients with flexible toe joints can pull the joint straight.

Resective Surgery Of The Joints:

Toes are usually stitched up after surgery, removing the joint end of the bone and keeping the toe straight until the bone heals. Small metal pins or rods may be used to keep the joints straight during healing. The pins are usually taken out a month or two after surgery.

Post-Surgical Recovery For Hammertoes

It is possible for your toe to become stiff, swollen, and red for up to 4-6 weeks after surgery. To relieve pressure on the toe, keep your foot elevated as much as possible. Ask your All-In-One Foot Care Center surgeon if you have any restrictions on driving or other activities until your toe is completely healed. It is possible that your toe will be a little longer or shorter when fully healed.

At All-In-One Foot Care Center, We Treat Hammer Toes

The foot and ankle specialists at All-In-One Foot Care Center, are committed to helping you achieve a full and speedy recovery if you are suffering from hammer toe. After we've examined your injury, we'll develop a tailored treatment plan. If you have any questions, we'll be happy to answer them.

You can contact our office at 949-588-8833, or visit our website at https://www.ocfootdoctor.com. Our offices are in Laguna Hills, Irvine, Mission Viejo, Aliso Viejo, Lake Forest, Foothill Ranch, and Costa Mesa.

📲 949-588-8833

🏢 24331 El Toro Rd, Suite 370 Laguna Woods CA 92637

🏢Irvine Medical Arts Building 113 Waterworks Way, Suite 250 Irvine, CA 92618

🌐 https://www.ocfootdoctor.com/

The information contained above is intended for general reference purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice or a medical exam. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health professionals before starting any new treatment. Health information on this website MUST NOT be used to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease without the supervision of your doctor.