Contraction of the toes that is not realigned with simple weightbearing may represent a hammertoe deformity. The toes can take on several different positional deformities and are generally the result of either weakness or contracture of different muscles and tendons that move the toes.

In many cases, the toe deformity itself is not a painful condition. However, the boney protrusion of the various joints involved may become callused resulting with corns that make wearing closed-toed shoes very painful.

Treatment of the deformed toes with accommodative padding has been the mainstay of over-the-counter methods, Corn removing solutions and pads attempt to dissolve the callus tissue with a mild acid. These usually give temporary relief at best and may actually cause more serious problems such as ulceration and even infection. These methods should never be used by diabetic patients or patients with poor circulation without the supervision of a physician.

Surgical correction of Hammertoes involves either simple removal of a portion of the toe bone (phalanx) or fusion of the contracted joint. The procedure often requires the use of pin fixation and approximately 6 weeks to return to regular shoe gear. Non-weightbearing is generally not necessary following this surgical procedure.

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