Causative & risk factors
The biggest cause of developing hammertoe or mallet toe is wearing tight shoes or high heels frequently. Hence women are more commonly affected by these deformities.
Sometimes these conditions can result due to trauma, diabetes, stroke, Charcot-Marie-Tooth syndrome or rheumatoid arthritis.
Clinical presentation
The affected toe appears physically deformed. There may be pain in the affected toe. Wearing shoes and walking may become difficult. Toe deformities are frequently associated with corns or calluses.
Investigations
Hammertoe or mallet toe can be diagnosed on the basis of physical examination. Investigations are performed to detect their underlying cause. They include X-rays, blood glucose levels, tests for rheumatoid factor etc.
Treatment
Treatment consists of conservative measures such as the use of orthotic shoes and splints. Anti-inflammatory drugs can be injected to relieve the pain.
Surgical intervention may be necessary in persistent or very painful cases.
