Hammer Toes
Definition
A hammer toe is a bending of either one or both joints of the lesser toes. This bending puts excessive pressure on the top of the toe causing problems.
Causes
- Mechanical- A muscle/tendon imbalance can cause the toe to bend
- Neurological causes- for example stroke or neuropathy
- Poor fitting Footwear
- Trauma
- Genetic
- Other deformities for example bunions can cause hammer toes
Symptoms
- Pain when wearing shoes
- Corns/callus may develop on the top of the toe, or the end of the toe due to pressure
- Inflammation and/or redness of the toe
- Fixed bending of the toe
Treatment
- Removal of corns or callus
- Footwear advice
- Orthotic intervention for muscle imbalance
- Surgery maybe indicated if symptoms persist and the toe becomes increasingly painful