Foot Problems – Hammertoes

Description: Hammertoes are the result of deformed toe joints, tight tendons that attach to the toe, and misaligned toe bones. The usual appearance of a hammertoe is a toe bent upward at the middle toe joint so that the top of this joint rubs against the top of the shoe. The remainder of the toe is bent downward so that, instead of the entire toe bearing weight, only the tip of the toe bears weight.

Hammertoes – Non-Invasive Treatment For Hammertoes

If you are suffering from hammertoes, you should know that there are several treatment options available. Fortunately, early diagnosis and treatment can help you avoid painful surgeries and accelerate recovery. In most cases, non-invasive treatments are available for hammertoes.

Read on for tips to help you avoid the painful condition. You should also try using your toes to pick up things. If you can’t get rid of the pain, you can perform gentle stretches on your toes.

The symptoms of hammertoes include swelling, redness, and restricted motion in the toe joints. These symptoms usually worsen over time, especially if you wear unsupportive shoes. In addition, hammertoes can be caused by tight or weak tendon tissue. If you suspect that you have hammertoes, see a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis. He or she may require X-rays to determine the cause. A foot and ankle surgeon may also do tests to determine whether you have diabetes.

Treatment for hammertoes should begin with a thorough examination of the feet. A trained examiner should evaluate the biomechanics of the patient’s feet in sitting and standing positions to identify whether the deformity is causing pain. The deformity can also be caused by an existing medical condition, such as a bunion. If treatment is provided early enough, hammertoes are likely to disappear with proper care. The best way to avoid the recurrence of hammertoes is to wear orthopedic shoes.

Pain can occur on the top of the toe, the tip of the toe, or in both areas. The following remedies are prescribed by podiatrists to relieve shoe pressure and pain in these toes; or, to help the toe lie straight, thus alleviating pain and preventing the hammertoe from becoming worse.

Double Hammertoe Splints extend the hammertoe and allow it to lie straight; thus, pain is alleviated in the top and tip of the toe.
Adhesive felt corn pads, held in place with self-sticking gauze. The gauze allows the skin to “breathe” and can be left on the toe for days. It stays on even after showers and baths.

• Removable, long-lasting Cresent Pads straighten the toes and prevent them from rubbing against the tops of your shoes, relieving your pain.
• Removable, long-lasting Silopad Toe Shields
  
• Exercise by stretching the toe straight for 10 seconds, and repeat for 3 to 5 minutes daily.
• Wear longer shoes.
• Wear flat shoes. (Do not wear shoes with a heel higher than 3/4 inch.)
• Gentle massage with a cool linament will help to relieve your pain.
• If you ever experience open wounds, intense redness, or extreme pain see a podiatrist immediately.
  Single Hammertoe Splint – This splint is constructed of comfortable, but sturdy materials that gently extend the hammertoe, allowing it to lie straight; thus, pain is alleviated in the top and tip of the toe. It will prevent the toe from becoming worse, allows it to bear weight normally, and prevents the unsightly bulges in shoes that hammertoes can cause. The well-padded bottom part of the splint will cushion the ball of the foot, giving you extra comfort. Constructed of thin, sturdy, cushioned materials which will easily fit in any shoe.This Crest or Splint is made of high-comfort chamois leather, that gently straightens one to five hammertoes, with each step you take. This alleviates your pain in the top or tip of the toe. It will also exercise the toes as you walk, preventing them from becoming worse, and more unsightly. It is made with an adjustable size toe loop to ensure a perfect fit. The quality and durability of these materials will allow each Crest to last for many months.

   

  The gel cushion (Silopad) consists of a soft, but sturdy and long-lasting, polymer gel pad impregnated with medical-grade mineral oil. The gel pad not only soothes the corn or painful skin but protects it from the shoe or adjacent toe pressure, alleviating your pain. The gel pad is held in place by a comfortable, stretchable elastic sleeve. This product is washable, fits in any shoe, and will last for months. It will last longer than any pad you can buy in a pharmacy.