Hammertoe is a medical term used to describe an abnormal position of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toe. The deformity occurs when one of the joints in the toe becomes bent and fixed, pointing upward, forming a hammer-shaped angle. Sometimes it can be painful due to joint irritation or constant rubbing against shoes. Hammertoe can also be caused by wearing shoes that are too tight. Hammertoe is usually present in both toes, but it can affect one or more of them. The second toe is the most commonly affected, followed by the big toe. You need to see a Bakersfield hammertoe specialist for quick intervention if you are affected by hammertoe.
Causes of Hammertoe
As mentioned, wearing shoes that are too tight can cause hammertoes. Women who wear high heels often develop this condition because they cut off the circulation to toes and tighten Achilles tendons. Other causes of hammertoes include:
- Thickened skin on the balls of feet
- Diabetes
- Ingrown toenails
- Fungal infections
- Arthritis
- Rheumatism
- Bone disorders like osteoporosis
- Genetic factors (Hammertoe tends to run in families)
Symptoms of Hammertoe
People suffering from hammertoes may not experience any symptoms at all. However, if you are experiencing the following symptoms, you need to see a Bakersfield hammertoe specialist immediately:
- Intense pain in toes; if your toe is pointing towards another toe or your big toe, then it’s time to seek medical help.
- Joint irritation; hammertoe can become very painful when rubbing against shoes or walking.
- Abnormal skin color
- Loss of skin on the affected toes; most of the time, you will notice a callous-like growth on top of your toe
- Nail inflammation; if left untreated, hammertoe can lead to severe problems like osteoarthritis in the knee or hip
Diagnosis of Hammertoe
If your doctor suspects that you are suffering from one of the types of hammertoes, he will start by asking about your medical history. They might use X-rays to determine what is causing the toe deformity. If there is any bone abnormality in the upper or lower parts of your foot, you will need an MRI (Magnetic resonance imaging) to determine how severe it is.
Treatment of Hammertoe
The first step of treatment for hammertoes is to stop wearing shoes that aggravate your condition. You should also wear open-toe shoes as much as possible or those with adjustable straps on the back. Your doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory medication to reduce the pain and discomfort caused by the condition. Cortisone injections can be used for short-term pain relief. Surgery is the last option to treat hammertoes. During surgery, your doctor will release the tendon tightening around the toe. Then they may cut tendons or nerves that are causing pain in your feet. After surgery, you have to wear a medical boot cast for six weeks. After that, you are advised to wear toe straighteners for six months. Your doctor might also recommend wearing open-toe shoes during this period to avoid complications.
In summary, hammertoe is a condition that causes mispositioning of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toe. It may develop due to genetic factors, arthritis, diabetes, or wearing extremely tight shoes. Most people with hammertoe do not experience any symptoms. To treat the condition, you need to stop wearing shoes that aggravate the situation. You may need pain medication cortisone injections for pain management. Your doctor may recommend surgery in extreme cases.
