Hammertoe: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options at Restore Podiatry
What is Hammertoe?
Hammertoe is a deformity in the feet where the toe bends at the middle joint, which might look like a hammer. Typically it affects the second, third, and fourth toes. This condition can be treated without surgical intervention at an early stage. In advanced stages, surgical procedures might be required.
Symptoms of Hammertoe
The most obvious symptom of hammertoe is an upward bend of the middle joint of the affected toe. Initially it might be flexible to move but as the condition progresses it becomes stiff.
The affected joint might end up rubbing the top of the shoes which end up causing discomfort. Many patients complain about corn on the top of the joint and calluse at the bottom due to abnormal pressure and friction with the shoe. Walking and other laborious activities can also add up to it. Pain, swelling and redness are other symptoms associated with hammertoe.
What Causes Hammertoe
Muscle Imbalance
When there is a muscle imbalance between the tendons on the top and bottom of the toes this deformity can be caused.
I’ll Fitted Shoes
Shoes which are too tight or narrow might cause deformity. Unfortunately even high heels can contribute to hammertoes, as it forces the toes in a cramped space increasing the pressure on them.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Arthritis damages the joint tissues, which can lead to inflammation and misalignment of toe joints.
Structure of Feet
People who have flat feet or high arches are prone to developing hammertoe in the future.
Injury
Sprain or Fracture in the toe can result in a higher chance of developing hammertoe.
Treatment Options for hammertoe at Restore Podiatry & Laser Center
Minimally Invasive Surgical Treatment
For advanced cases of hammertoe, Restore Podiatry offers minimally invasive cosmetic foot surgery. Unlike the traditional approach which requires a larger incision, this involves only a small incision with minimal tissue damage.
Minimally invasive hammertoe correction helps realign the bones and tendons. No stitches, no placement of any hardware like screws and pins. This correction is typically performed as an outpatient surgery and requires no cast either. It focuses on natural healing and faster healing than traditional surgery.
Read more about Minimally Invasive Surgery here.
Non-surgical Treatment Options
Laser Therapy
Restore Podiatry offers laser treatments such as Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) and High Power Laser Therapy (HPLT) which targets the root cause of muscle imbalance in feet. It is effective for early stage hammertoe where it can help reduce inflammation and improve circulation.
Read more about Laser Therapies here.
3D Printed Custom Orthotics
Custom orthotics are often used to redistribute pressure on the foot and prevent further progression. It can help with realigning the toes, providing the support to the arches and ultimately reducing the strain on the affected muscles and tendons.
Read more about 3D Printed Custom Orthotics here.
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