What is a hammertoe?

Hammertoes are a contracture of toes as a result of muscle imbalance between tendons on the top and tendons on the bottom of the toe. They can be flexible or rigid in nature. When rigid, it is not possible to straighten the toe by manipulating it.  Frequently, hammertoes develop corns on top of the toe as a result of rubbing against the shoe. They may also cause bothersome calluses on the ball of the foot. Although a hammertoe may be present at birth, it usually develops over time due to arthritis or wearing tight pointed shoes.

How are hammertoes treated?

Preventive treatment of a hammertoe is directed towards the cause of the deformity. Custom molded orthotics can be prescribed to address the abnormal functioning of the foot that causes the hammertoe. Often, when orthotic devices are used for flexible hammertoes, the toes will straighten overtime and correct themselves. Calf stretching can also help overcome part of the muscle imbalance that causes the hammertoe.

When the hammertoe is flexible, a tendon release in the toe works well. The recovery is rapid and surgical intervention is not required. For surgical correction of a rigid hammertoe, the procedure consists of removing the damaged skin where the corn is located. Afterwards, a small section of the bone is removed at the level of the rigid joint. For further in-depth analysis of treatment for a hammertoe please see the link below.

Source: Podiatry Nework, http://podiatrynetwork.com/?p=903