Hammertoes
Posted: August 1, 2016 2:34 pm
Did you know??? Hammertoes can be the result of ill-fitting shoes, types of trauma, and can also be inherited. A hammertoe is a contracture–or bending–of one or both joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth (little) toes. This abnormal bending can put pressure on the toe when wearing shoes, causing problems to develop. Common symptoms of hammertoes include: pain or irritation of the affected toe when wearing shoes, corns on the top, side, or end of the toe, or between two toes, calluses on the bottom of the toe or on the ball of the foot.
Hammertoes usually start out as mild deformities and get progressively worse over time. If left untreated, hammertoes can become more rigid and will not respond to non-surgical treatment and in more severe cases open sores may form. Hammertoes should receive early treatment as they will never get better without intervention.
A number of non-surgical measures can be undertaken: trimming corns and calluses, padding corns and calluses, changes in shoe wear, Orthotic devices, injection therapy, medications, and splinting/strapping.
In some cases surgery is needed to relieve the pain and discomfort caused by the deformity. Dr. Mussett can remove a small section of bone or perform a fusion to straighten the toes. A pin or other small fixation device is typically used to hold the toe in position while the bones are healing.
During your visit you will experience a complete foot check that includes looking for skin melanomas which can occur due to sun exposure. We offer same day scheduling for your convenience. Contact our office today to schedule your appointment.
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