Hammertoe

Hammertoe: Bent Toes and Uncomfortable Shoes

Have you ever noticed a toe that seems to curl downward like a claw? That's hammertoe, a condition where the middle joint of a toe bends abnormally. It usually affects the second toe, but any toe can develop it.

Early Signs and Progression

At first, the toe might still bend and straighten when barefoot. But over time, the tendons in the toe can shorten and tighten, causing the toe to get stuck in a bent position. This can lead to rubbing against your shoes, forming corns and calluses.

Who's at Risk?

Anyone can get hammertoe, but it's more common in:

• Women: High heels are a common culprit.
• Older Adults: Repeated stress on the toes can increase the risk.
• People with Nerve Damage: Diabetes and other conditions can affect the muscles and tendons in the feet.
• Those with Long Second Toes: When the second toe is longer than the big toe, it can bend to fit in with the other toes.

High Heels and Other Causes

The main culprit behind hammertoe? Shoes! Tight, narrow shoes, especially high heels, squeeze the toes together and force them into an unnatural position. Injuries like stubbed toes can also make toes more prone to hammertoe, especially if not treated properly.

Treatment Options

The good news is that hammertoe can often be treated without surgery. Here's what can help:

• Comfortable Shoes: Ditch the high heels and opt for wider shoes with a roomy toe box that allows your toes to lie flat.
• Orthotics: Custom shoe inserts can help realign your toes and support your feet.
• Surgery (in severe cases): If the tendons are severely contracted or pain is significant, surgery might be needed.

Preventing Hammertoe and Foot Care Tips

Here are some simple ways to keep your toes healthy and hammertoe-free:

• Choose Shoes Wisely: Avoid narrow shoes and high heels. Opt for a wider toe box and lower heels.
• Give Your Toes Space: There should be at least 1cm of space between your longest toe and the front of the shoe.
• Soft Uppers: Choose shoes with soft, flexible uppers that won't rub against your toes.
• Orthotics for Heel Lovers: If you love your heels, discuss custom orthotics with a podiatrist to help prevent toe problems.
• Exercises: Ask your podiatrist about stretches and exercises to strengthen your toe muscles and tendons.

By following these tips, you can keep your feet happy and hammertoe at bay!