CLAW OR HAMMER TOES: PAINFUL DEFORMITIES
What are claw or hammer fingers?
These are alterations in the alignment of the smaller toes, causing them to bend excessively and adopt an abnormal shape. This can lead to friction with footwear and the formation of painful calluses.
Causes and risk factors
- Imbalance between the muscles of the foot.
- prolonged use of inappropriate footwear.
- Bunions that push the other toes into an abnormal position.
- Neuromuscular diseases or arthritis.
Symptoms of claw or hammer toes
- Pain in the top of the toes due to rubbing against the shoe.
- Formation of calluses or hardened areas at pressure points.
- Progressive stiffness of the fingers.
- Difficulty putting on shoes and walking normally.
Treatment
- Stretching and strengthening exercises to improve mobility.
- Use of corrective splints and wide footwear with cushioned sole.
- Custom orthotics to relieve pressure on the fingers.
- PRP or hyaluronic acid injections in inflammatory cases.
- Corrective surgery in rigid or advanced deformities.
Dr. Narváez Clinic’s Approach
When to Consult?
If you have foot pain that doesn’t get better, difficulty walking, or notice that your shoes no longer fit well due to progressive deformities, it’s time to look for a solution.
