Causes of Hammer Toes

Hammer toes arise due to an imbalance in the muscles and tendons that control toe movement. The most common causes include wearing tight shoes, genetics, arthritis, injury, or neurological limitations.

In the case of improper footwear, hammer toes are primarily caused by tight or small shoes with high heels and narrow toe boxes that squeeze the toes and cause them to bend. It is no wonder that hammer toes affect women more often.

The development of hammer toes can also be the result of genetic predisposition, so it is advisable to inquire whether hammer toes have occurred in your family.

Unfortunately, common causes also include inflammatory joint diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, which can damage the toe joints and subsequently lead to their deformation.

The development of hammer toes can also have more serious causes, such as fractures or other toe injuries that have not been properly treated. Additionally, there are some neurological diseases, such as stroke or multiple sclerosis, that can affect the muscles and nerves that control the toes.

Symptoms of Hammer Toes

The primary symptom of hammer toes is a visible downward bend in the middle joint of the toe. Other symptoms include pain, calluses, corns, stiffness, and even skin inflammation. Those affected by this deformity describe the following symptoms:

• Regarding pain, they say that the pain manifests directly in the affected toe, especially when walking or wearing shoes.
• Painful and unsightly calluses and corns can develop on the toe due to the friction of the joint against the shoe.
• Limited range of motion in the affected joint is also a common symptom of hammer toes.
• Inflammation may also occur, recognizable by redness and swelling of the skin around the joint.

Treatment of Hammer Toes

Treatment for hammer toes depends on the severity of the deformity and the presence of pain. In the early stages, conservative methods can be effective, such as:

• Changing footwear: Wearing comfortable shoes with enough space for the toes and a low heel can help alleviate symptoms.
• Exercises: Stretching and strengthening exercises focused on the toes can help improve range of motion and strengthen muscles.
• Orthotic devices: Toe correctors, splints, or shoe inserts can help straighten the toe and reduce pressure on the joint.
• Physical therapy: A physical therapist can recommend appropriate exercises and techniques to relieve pain and improve toe function.

In advanced stages, when conservative treatment does not help, surgical intervention may be necessary. There are several different surgical procedures that can be used to straighten the toe and improve its function.

Barefoot Shoes and Hammer Toes

Barefoot shoes, or barefoot shoes, are designed to simulate barefoot walking and allow the foot natural movement. Some experts believe that barefoot shoes can be beneficial for people with hammer toes because:

• They provide enough space for the toes: Barefoot shoes have a wide toe box that allows toes to naturally spread and move.
• They strengthen foot muscles: Barefoot shoes promote the activation of foot muscles, which are often weakened when wearing traditional shoes. This can help improve balance and stability and reduce the risk of toe deformities.
• They improve proprioception: Proprioception is the ability to sense the position and movement of the body. Barefoot shoes improve foot proprioception, which can lead to improved walking biomechanics and reduced stress on the toes.

However, it is important to note that there is not enough scientific evidence to definitively confirm the effectiveness of barefoot shoes in treating hammer toes. Some people may experience pain relief when switching to barefoot shoes, while others may experience worsening symptoms.

Conclusion

Hammer toes are a common problem that can be very painful and limiting. Early diagnosis and proper treatment are key to successfully managing this condition. If you suspect you have hammer toes, it is important to consult with a doctor or physical therapist who can recommend a suitable treatment plan. Barefoot shoes may be beneficial for some people with hammer toes, but it is important to proceed cautiously and consult with an expert before deciding to switch to barefoot shoes.

Sources:

Mayo Clinic: Hammertoe and mallet toe - https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hammertoe-and-mallet-toe/symptoms-causes/syc-20350839

American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons: Hammer Toe - https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases--conditions/hammer-toe

National Institutes of Health: Hammer toe - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK539718/

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. If you suspect you have hammer toes, always consult with a doctor.