Hammer Toes And Claw Toes
At A Glance:
Lesser toe deformities such as Hammer toes and Claw toes often form part of other problems in the foot. However, they can occur in isolation as well. Both these conditions can be extremely painful, uncomfortable and cause difficulty finding fitting shoes.
Symptoms
- Inability to move your toes normally.
- Corns or calluses on the top of the toes.
- Corns or calluses on the tip of the toes.
- Discomfort when walking or difficulty walking .
- Pain when trying to stretch the toes.
- A toe or toes that curls under the foot in the shape of a claw.
Causes:
- An injury to the toe.
- Arthritis in the foot.
- Cavus feet.
- The tightness of ligaments or tendons in the foot.
- Pressure from a bunion.
- Ankle injuries.
- Nerve injury in your foot may lead to imbalances of the toe muscles.
- Inflammation in the toe joints.
- Underlying disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis; cerebral palsy; diabetes; or a stroke.
Treatment Options
Nonsurgical methods include:
- Painkillers.
- Bunion pads.
- Corn cushions.
- Orthotics (insoles) may help distribute pressure and help with pain when wearing shoes.
- Special shoes.
- Tape or splints to keep the toes in the correct position.
However, if these methods fail to give you relief, surgical methods may be an option for you.
Surgical methods of treating lesser toe deformities include:
- Straightening the toes by transferring the tendons in the toes if the joints are flexible. If the joints are stiff, they can be straightened by fusing the joints in a better position.
If you have discomfort from deformities of your lesser toes, your orthopaedic surgeon will be able to diagnose you more accurately and advise on treatment options.