Hammertoes are a toe deformity that primarily affects the second, third, and fourth toes. In this deformity, the middle joint of the affected toe abnormally bends upwards while the tip points downwards. Thus, the affected toes get into an abnormal position, resembling a hammer, causing pain and discomfort and impacting everyday activities.
Hammertoes can affect one or multiple toes of the same foot. This unnatural position naturally puts undue stress on the joints, limits toe movement, and can rub against shoes, causing painful irritations, blisters, or even corns. Walking becomes uncomfortable and awkward. Pain and discomfort in the toes become normal and significantly limit daily activities like walking and standing by putting constant pressure on them.
Long-Term Implications of Hammertoes:
Hammertoes can seriously dampen the quality of life, making even simple activities like walking or wearing shoes painful. Additionally, because they are abnormal, hammertoes can worsen over time, creating new problems for the individual.
- Constant rubbing of the toes against shoes can create friction and lead to open sores, which can be particularly problematic for people with diabetes. These open sores are highly vulnerable to infection, which can spread to other areas of the foot.
- The undue pressure on the toes due to their bent position can inflame the fluid-filled spaces around the joints, causing additional pain and discomfort.
Symptoms and the problems caused by hammertoes can vary in severity, and many people often silently tolerate the pain until it becomes unbearable. It is highly advisable to consult a foot specialist before symptoms worsen and cause long-term complications.
Corns:
Similarly, corns are other conditions that can develop on the feet and toes. These tiny and bothersome calluses are formed due to repeated pressures and friction on the skin, which can cause sores, pain, and irritation.
Corns are usually caused by friction from repetitive activities like running, dancing, or wearing ill-fitting footwear for extended periods. In some cases, hammertoes may also cause corns due to excessive pressure on specific areas of the foot.
Over time, corns can carry the same risks of complications as hammertoes. There is a high chance of infection as corns often break open due to constant friction. In rare cases, corns can grow inward and pressure nearby nerves, leading to more profound discomfort and pain.
Treatment for Hammertoes & Corns at Moonot Healthcare:
Both hammertoes and corn can drastically impact the quality of life and pose long-term severe risks unless addressed and treated by foot and ankle specialists. Unfortunately, people may lack access to specialist medical care, not to mention the financial burden it can place on them.
For individuals lacking the means to afford specialist medical care, Moonot Healthcare aims to provide accessible and comprehensive treatment for foot conditions like hammertoes and corns. Our team, led by foot and ankle surgeon Dr. Pradeep Moonot, offers personalized care to alleviate pain, improve mobility, and prevent complications, ultimately improving the quality of life for our patients.
