Individuals who have a hammertoe may have discomfort when walking and pain when moving or stretching the affected toe. A way to find relief is by having Hammertoes Surgery in Racine WI. Surgery will reposition the toe, remove the deformed or injured bone and realign the tendons. However, how does one get to the point of needing surgery? For that, it is best to understand more about what a hammertoe is.
What is a Hammertoe?
A hammer toe is a deformity within a toe or multiple toes. The deformity causes the toe to bend or curl instead of remaining straight. While hammer toes can be on any toe of the foot, they are most common with the second and third toe. Hammertoes may be present at birth and can develop with time due to arthritis and wearing ill-fitting shoes.
What Causes a Hammertoe?
A hammertoe is caused when the middle joint of the toe becomes flexed or bends in a downward position. Common causes may include: traumatic toe injury, arthritis, a high arch, tightened ligaments or tendons within the foot, bunion pressure and ill-fitting shoes.
Signs and Symptoms of a Hammertoe
There are many symptoms an individual may experience, all ranging from mild to severe. Listed below are a few of the more common symptoms experienced.
- A toe bending downward
- Corns or calluses
- Difficulty walking
- Inability to flex the foot
- Inability to wiggle the toes
- Toes resembling claws
There may be complications with a hammertoe should it go untreated for an extended period of time. A hammertoe may be able to maintain its flexibility in the beginning but eventually, the tendons of the toe will contract and tighten. This will cause the toe to become permanently bent. When the toe becomes permanently bent, hammertoes surgery in Racine WI is necessary for relief.
There are ways an individual can prevent developing a hammertoe and other injuries to the foot.
- Avoid shoes with pointed toes.
- Buy shoes that are adjustable for the foot to move around. It is important to find a shoe with laces or straps.
- Purchase shoes near the end of the day.
Contact Us
Hammertoes can be painful but that does not mean it is a lifelong injury. For more tips on preventing foot and toe injuries or to schedule a consultation visit, browse our website today.
