Hammer toe is caused by pressure or trauma to the knuckle of a toe, resulting in severe pain and a raised area prone to calluses and corns. Properly sized shoes and footwear with enough space in the toe compartment can prevent it. Treatment options include manipulation of the toe, shoe inserts, and surgery.
One of the strongest arguments for properly sized shoes is a condition known as hammer toe. Hammer toe occurs when pressure or trauma to the knuckle of a finger causes the entire finger to bend down. The muscles surrounding the toe joints contract, causing severe pain and a raised area prone to calluses and corns. Some cases of hammer toe are classified as flexible, because the toe can be stretched back to its normal shape. Other cases are classified as stiff, meaning the muscles have become so atrophied that normal movement is impossible.
Although any toe is susceptible to the deforming effects of hammer toe, it is mostly seen in the second toe. For many people, this second toe is actually longer than the “big toe” used for casual footwear. If the toe compartment of the shoe does not allow for at least 1/2 inch of space in front of the longer toe, the pressure can lead to hammer toe. Shoes that narrow forward can also injure the second toe, and high heels only intensify hammertoe problems.
There is also evidence of a certain genetic predisposition to hammer toe formation. Other cases of hammer toe can be caused by physical trauma, such as a poorly placed kick or a headbutting accident. Nerve damage in the foot area can also cause individual toes to twitch involuntarily. Hammertoe can seriously affect a sufferer’s gait, but many people learn to compensate.
There are various treatments for hammertoe, ranging from manipulation of the toe itself to surgical correction. A podiatrist may recommend a change of footwear to give your toes more room to flex. Over-the-counter hammertoe treatments often include adhesive gel pads and shoe inserts to reduce friction between the affected toe and the top of the shoe. Surgery may be considered if the toe becomes inflexible and atrophied to the point of constant pain.
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