Hammer, Claw and Mallet Toes
Toe deformities are a common problem that are caused by genetic factors, osteoarthritis or incorrectly fitting footwear. Pain can be due the joint becoming inflamed over time, or could be due to callus or corn growth caused by increased pressure from footwear. While toe deformities occur in men and women, it is women who will have more problems due to tighter footwear.
When you have a toe deformity, it is very important to have appropriate shoes that can accommodate the toe position. This usually means avoiding pointed shoes or shoes with a shallow toe box, for example, ballet flats.
Your foot mechanics will play a role in how your toes function, so the Podiatrists at Foot Right Podiatry can examine this with a biomechanical assessment which will give us some clues on how best to improve your toe position and prevent the problem becoming more severe.
Depending on the severity of the toe deformity, there are a number of treatment options available. We have a selection of silicon pads that can help reduce pressure on the toes and we are able to recommend appropriate footwear for problem feet. Orthoses are able to influence your foot and toe function, so this treatment may be recommended to help prevent further deformity.
If the pain is mainly due to a corn or callus that has grown on the toe, the Podiatrists at Foot Right Podiatry will be able to treat this at your first consultation and will provide you with a number of recommendations to help stop, or reduce the corn or callus growth over time.
At their worst, surgical intervention may be required to straighten the toes and we can offer advice on the best option for you.