Factors and Treatment of Hammer Toe

Possible Factors to develop Hammer Toe

Arthritis:

Arthritis is a joint pain at knee and hip that applies pressure on feet leading to contraction of toe joints.

Bunions:

Bony prominence (or) inflammation of bone joint at the side of feet near the base of big toe. This will make the big toe to move towards second toe developing severe pressure, which leads to the bending of toes.

Corns:

Spontaneous pressure over toes will thicken the skin developing a layer for protection. The layer look like a cone placed upside down and this hardened skin is known as corn. When there is severe pain by corns, it makes the toe to bend causing deformity like Mallet toe, Hammer toe. Corns usually occur over the toes especially on little toe by repeated rubbing with the wall of footwear.

Callus:

A layer of skin thickened surrounding the corn due to heavy stress is called callus. Callus usually occurs wide over the toes and all over the bottom of feet. Pain caused by callus makes the toe to bend which in turn affects the joint at the end of toe (or) point at which toe joins the feet. This leads to complications like Hammer Toe, Claw Toe and Mallet Toe.

Treatment - Hammer Toes

The best treatment for Hammer toes is to get new pair of shoes with roomy toe box and superior cushioning. Sandals are most preferable to treat hammer toe problem. Simple toe exercises will strengthen the muscles and decrease pain. Exercises also increase the blood flow and keep the feet fresh as well as active.

Soft socks with extra padded shoes provide support and gentle pressure to the toes maintaining roomy comfort. Moisturizing cream can be applied over the skin of toes for better relief and smooth feel against irritation. Corns (or) Callus around the toes must be cured entirely for effective treatment of Hammer Toes.