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Hammertoes
What is a Hammertoe?
A hammertoe is a contracture—or bending—of the
toe at the first joint of the digit, called the proximal
interphalangeal joint. This bending causes the toe to appear like an
upside-down V when looked at from the side. Any toe can be involved,
but the condition usually affects the second through fifth toes,
known as the lesser digits. Hammertoes are more common to females
than males.
There are two different types:
Flexible Hammertoes:
These are less serious because they can be
diagnosed and treated while still in the developmental stage. They
are called flexible hammertoes because they are still moveable at
the joint.
Rigid Hammertoes:
This variety is more developed and more serious
than the flexible condition. Rigid hammertoes can be seen in
patients with severe arthritis, for example, or in patients who wait
too long to seek professional treatment. The tendons in a rigid
hammertoe have become tight, and the joint misaligned and immobile,
making surgery the usual course of treatment.
Symptoms
- Pain upon pressure at the top of the bent toe
from footwear.
- The formation of corns on the top of the
joint.
- Redness and swelling at the joint
contracture.
- Restricted or painful motion of the toe
joint.
- Pain in the ball of the foot at the base of
the affected toe.
How Do You Get a Hammertoe?
A hammertoe is formed due an abnormal balance
of the muscles in the toes. This abnormal balance causes increased
pressures on the tendons and joints of the toe, leading to its
contracture. Heredity and trauma can also lead to the formation of a
hammertoe. Arthritis is another factor, because the balance around
the toe in people with arthritis is so disrupted that a hammertoe
may develop. Wearing shoes that are too tight and cause the toes to
squeeze can also be a cause for a hammertoe to form. |
