Hammertoes
Our General Practice Information Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yfeJaKW8ZTg
Ingrown Toenails Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C4e3zT6RKRw
Laser Therapy for Fungus Toenails Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YGc7sXlKmQQ
Heel Pain Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AL23umiSGl4
Bunions Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sKXGVctTnzo
Injuries, Fractures, Sprains Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nkP798UkWc8
Diabetic Foot Care Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uDV8B3nTviI
Warts Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nAcmDmjxss8
Hammertoe is a deformity of the second, third, or fourth toes. In this condition, the toe is bent at the middle joint, causing it to resemble a hammer. Left untreated, hammertoes can become inflexible and require surgery. People with hammertoe may have corns or calluses on the top of the middle joint of the toe or on the tip of the toe. They may also feel pain in their toes or feet and have difficulty finding comfortable shoes.
Causes of hammertoe include improperly fitting shoes and muscle imbalance.
Treatment for the condition typically involves wearing shoes with soft, roomy toe boxes and toe exercises to stretch and strengthen the muscles. Commercially available straps, cushions, or nonmedicated corn pads may also relieve symptoms.
In severe cases, hammertoe surgery may be recommended to correct the deformity.