Hammer toes are caused by hyperextension of the metatarsophalangeal joint. However, good footwear can generally prevent the appearance of toe deformities. Medical treatment is therefore necessary to relieve the patient. The deformation of the interphalangeal joint causes friction against the shoe, resulting in painful corns. Often caused by poor footwear, hammer toes can be recognized by their V shape. Avoid shoes with narrow or pointed toe boxes that can compress the toes.Hammer toe : causes, symptoms and prevention.Orthotics may slow the progression or prevent the development of hammertoes. Wear custom orthotics prescribed by your podiatrist. Hammertoes are often related to faulty foot mechanics, especially foot flattening. Wear supportive shoes to help prevent deformities.There are several things you can do to help prevent hammer toes from forming or progressing: Any pain, however, is easily managed with medications prescribed by your podiatrist. Recuperation takes time, and some swelling and discomfort are common for several weeks following surgery. Severe hammertoes, which are not fully reducible, may require more complex surgical procedures. For less severe deformities, the surgery will remove the bony prominence and restore normal alignment of the toe joint, thus relieving pain. Surgical Options: Several surgical procedures are available. An orthotic device may reduce symptoms and prevent the worsening of the hammertoe deformity. Custom shoe inserts made by our podiatrist may be useful in controlling foot function. Anti-inflammatory drugs and cortisone injections can be prescribed to ease acute pain and inflammation caused by the joint deformity. Taping may change the imbalance around the toes and thus relieve the stress and pain. Padding the hammertoe prominence minimizes pain and allows the patient to continue a normal, active life. Often padding and taping are the first steps in a treatment plan. Our podiatrist will examine and X-ray the affected area and recommend a treatment plan specific to your condition. The treatment options vary with the type and severity of each hammertoe, although identifying the deformity early in its development is important to avoid surgery. If left untreated, hammer toes tend to become rigid, making non-surgical treatment less of an option. If pain persists, come in and see our podiatrist.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |