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Hammertoes
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A hammertoe is a bending or buckling of the
digit. As the problem increases, the toe becomes prominent on
the top of the foot, and blistering or callusing may develop
over the knuckle. In the most extreme cases an ulcer will
develop. This can be especially dangerous for patients with
circulation problems or diabetes.
There are many causes of
hammertoes including wearing tight shoes or high heels, or a
muscle imbalance caused by diabetes or other neuromuscular
conditions. Hammertoes occur on all the digits, but of
particular nuisance are those on the little toe. Hammertoes on
the little toe can cause not only a painful callus on top of
the toe, but often a soft callus between the little toe and
the toe next to it. These can be very tender--especially in
shoes.
Conservative treatment involves accommodating
the bony prominence with extradepth shoes, corn pads, and
other devices designed to straighten the toe. Many patients
come into the podiatrist’s office periodically and have the
callus/corns professionally trimmed down. Unfortunately this
treatment is rarely permanent and the callus/corns soon
return.
Surgery may be indicated for patients whose
corns return quickly after trimming, or in those who don't get
any pain relief from trimming or padding the area. Also, those
with diabetes or circulation problems may benefit from
surgical correction to prevent more serious
complications.
Hammertoe surgery is a minor procedure
and can often be performed in the office. Patients are usually
walking within two days and often able to wear their own shoes
within a
week.
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