Hammer toes, mallet toes, retracting digits, are all a variation on a theme of a change of angle or position of the lesser digits (toes) of the foot. Hammer type toes can be caused by a number of issues, from trauma, muscle tightness, stability issues, arthritris neurological issues, even metabolic conditions such as diabetes may contribute. Hammer toes are often seen in the senior population. Having a good management plan can make significant differences to a persons comfort and quality of life.
Hammer type toes can be fixated in position or flexible, or a combination, where one part of the joint is more sticky/fixated than the other joints within a phalanx (toe).
Hammer toe with Ortho-digital splint in position made at Coastal Podiatry
The condition can effect people in many ways, from simple cosmetic appearance, shoe fit, rubbing on the top of the toes from the shoes, to calluses or corns forming on the top of the toe (at the dorsal interphalageal joint) to the apex (end ) of the toe.
If you think you may be suffering from hammer toes, and they are causing you pain, discomfort, making walking or activities difficult or you are concerned with the cosmetic appearance. Then perhaps it may be of benefit to discuss the condition with a medical practitioner. This also applies if you are a carer or have a family member who may be presenting with the condition.
From a Podiatry perspective, relief from the condition may come in the form of a footwear review (running trainer type shoes can often be very helpful), to ensure the is plenty of support for the foot and space for the toes, cushioning, correct materials to ensure less rubbing on the top of the toes. Toe props/protectors such as custom made silicone ortho-digital splints or similar can be made in clinic to provide relief and protection. If hard skin and corns form on the tips of the toes, the Podiatrist can debride and remove these (not from the pressures of walking, they can come back, and would need to be removed again). Moisturizer /foot emolient can help for hard skin to soften it. Orthotic/arch supports can help in many cases reducing load across the foot and, in extreme cases, there are surgical options but only after all conservative (non surgical ) measures have been considered. If you have hammer toes and are diabetic, have reduced circulation, or other issues that may effect your health and well being, we would recommend you have your feet checked out by a Podiatrist / Chiropodist.
Custom made silicone ortho-digital splint for hammer toe made at Coastal Podiatry
We are happy to discuss your foot health needs and provide advice and guidance on your feet as after all, we all want to be comfortable and get the most out of what we have, especially when it comes to our feet, the are after all the foundation of our body.
Appointments and home visits are available on 07748 142169 and 01202 748 899 Sandbanks Clinic – Call us, if you are in pain or discomfort and need advice. info@coastalpodiatry.co.uk
Further reading
National Library of Medicine: Hammer Toes
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559268
Harvard Medical School Discussion on Hammer Toes
https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/hammertoe-a-to-z
Diabetes and forefoot deformity / intrinsic Muscles