Hammertoe/Clawtoe
Description:
A hammertoe is an arched or flexed toe at the first joint (closest knuckle to the foot), the result of an abnormal contraction or bending that leaves the toe in a claw-like position. Once stiffened into position, a hammertoe can rub against shoes and cause painful corns and calluses. A hammertoe is usually caused by muscle imbalances and aggravated by poorly fitted shoes.
This condition is associated with other foot conditions such as:
Pain ranges from dull to sharp depending upon the level of irritation and compression of the nerves in the toes.
Treatment: Conservative Care
| Shoes: | A larger, softer shoe can relieve the direct pressure or pressure from adjacent toes. Make sure that the shoe has enough room at the end about the width of your thumb and that the toe box (front of the shoe) is high enough to allow your toes to move freely. |
| Paring: | If a there is a corn or callus formation, reduction by either professional sharp debridement (shaving) or consistent filing will give temporary relief. Use caution with over the counter corn removal medication or pads. The medication is a type of acid that can cause an ulceration or infection if not used properly or in excess. |
| Padding: | There is an array of over the counter corn or callus pads.They can be placed directly over the corn or on either side of the lesion to relieve the pressure. |
| Arch support: | Temporary arch supports or custom molded orthotics can give support and minimize the gripping or clawing effect of toes from a flattening archway. These devices are good solution for long term treatment with or without surgical intervention. |
Surgical Options:
The toe joint is remodeled and straightened. Occasionally an additional spur removal is also performed. If indicated, the skin lesion or corn is removed during the procedure or it will naturally fall off 3 to 4 weeks after the surgery. The incision is minimal (1.5cm to 3/4 inch) on the top of the toe and sutures are removed at 2 weeks. The procedure is performed in the office with local anesthetic or at an outpatient facility under sedation and full weight bearing is allowed after 48 to 72 hours of partial weight bearing.
