Flexible or Rigid How Your Toe Stage Matters

However, this distinction matters because it is clear that not every hammertoe is on the same level. Other toes can, also, be gently straightened by hand and others have become fused permanently in a bent position. Knowing how extreme a toe falls on that continuum is central to selecting the appropriate Hammertoe Treatment in Brockton MA patients can trust to correct their problem for good.

A hammertoe happens when imbalances in the tendons and muscles around a toe joint mean the middle joint curves down, not remaining flat. Usually affecting the second, third or fourth toe and takes time to get worst rather than sudden appearance.

The condition is considered flexible during its early stage. It is still possible to straighten the toe manually, and it usually only curls significantly when weight-bearing or standing. Because the joint still has a full range of motion, this stage typically responds very well to conservative treatment.

Flexible hammer toes do not remain that way when left untreated. The tendons at that joint and in the capsule around it slowly shorten, until the toe is locked up immovably and permanently bent upwards at all times to such a degree that even by hand straightening will not be possible any more. When that transition occurs, the deformity achieves a rigid status.

The stage of the condition matters because it determines the entire treatment discussion. A flexible hammertoe usually responds well to non-surgical treatment, while a rigid, contracted toe typically requires surgical correction to restore normal alignment and relieve pain.

Conservative care for a flexible hammertoe generally begins with alterations in the shoes. Wide, deep toe box shoes remove the mechanical pressure that propels the deformity forward as they align the toes in a more natural position throughout the day.

Most conservative plans also include padding, toe splints and specific stretching exercises. Assessing hammertoe treatment options in Brockton, MA. The first steps for treating a flexible deformity are normally performed here with preventative measures as these can slow or potentially stop progression when the toe still has room to move.

Now for rigid hammertoes, it is a different story. Padding and splints help only because the joint is no longer flexed, but they cannot repair the fundamental malformation. The timing of surgical correction is not at this point, it is the only true means to approximate proper alignment.

The surgical options to correct congenital pes equines depend on the degree of severity and may include soft tissue releases in cases of mild involvement to osteotomies for more rigid deformities. Recovery is relatively simple; most patients will be back in regular footwear within weeks.

The obvious benefit of treating a hammertoe while it still has some flexibility is that there are more treatment options available, and less likelihood that surgery will be required later. Taking a more proactive approach with anyone who observes even a slight curling of a toe, rather than waiting until things deteriorate more is the better approach.

Conclusion

The difference between whether a hammertoe can be treated with nothing but simple shoe changes, or if it requires surgical correction, hinges primarily on whether the joint is still flexible. That early period is when you have the greatest range of treatment options, and the best opportunity for obtaining a comfortable, predictable result — if you see your doctor during that window rather than waiting until the toe becomes immobile.