What is a Hammer Toe?
'Hammer
toe' is a term to describe a toe which turns downwards like
a claw. It can affect any toe although the second toe is
most commonly affected. Other terms that describe badly aligned
toes include mallet toe, claw toeand trigger toes depending
on the exact location of the deformity.
Like bunions, they can be caused by wearing narrow or
ill fitting shoes.
So, if you think this may be the cause of your hammer
toe, try wearing more comfortable shoes in the first instance
to see if this helps. Hammer toes and their counterparts
can cause other problems of the foot if left untreated.
These include corns, cramps, infections and ulcers.
If the problem persists or the toe becomes badly misaligned,
then you could consider surgery as an option.
Surgery involves loosing the contracted toe joint and
therefore allowing proper alignment of the toe with the
others.
The operation is usually performed under general anesthetic
although a special anesthetic to numb the foot can also
be used. It maybe possible to leave hospital on the same
day as the procedure.
After surgery you should try to wear wide fitting shoes
such as running shoes which are ideal for this complaint.
Free Consultation - the
next step
The next step is to arrange a free
private consultation with our Mills & Mills Orthopaedic
Surgeon at a centre
near you. This is easy to do. Simply call us on the
number provided and we will do the rest. We will be happy
to chat with you on the phone and answer any questions
that you might have. We know how important this procedure
is to you. It is our aim to provide you with a service
second to none.
We look forward to hearing from
you.
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