Consider Non-Surgical Treatments for Hammer Toe Correction

Surgery is a sure method to correct a hammer toe. However, insurance companies may require patients to try non-surgical treatments for hammer toe before agreeing to pay for the procedure. Non-surgical treatments can include the use of analgesic or anti-inflammatory drugs to help ease pain and swelling. Cortisone injections also work to this effect.

Hammer Toe

Hammer Toe is little-known a painful condition that affects the second, third and fourth toes involving different joints of the toe and foot. A hammer toe can be caused by many other conditions such as RA (rheumatoid arthritis), osteoarthritis, trauma or injuries to your foot. Also, it can be hereditary or can be caused by a cerebral vascular accident. If you wear shoes that are too narrow or short for your feet, it may exacerbate any pain you already have.

Can You Skip Surgery?

Less invasive methods include the use of a custom-made orthotic insert. This helps prevent the hammer toe from worsening and eases discomfort. A splint can hold the hammer toe in the correct position if the patient can still straighten it. At the very least, you can apply non-medicated pads to the top of the deformed joint. They will protect the toe from rubbing against the shoe. Also, you can further prevent exacerbation of the hammer toe. Wear properly fitted shoes that leave a gap of at least half an inch between the longest of your toes and the tip of the shoe. Finally, another suggestion is to avoid wearing high heels above two inches.
Regardless of the treatment you choose, correction of hammer toes requires some form of medical attention.

Foot HealthCare Associates

It is really important to your overall well-being to seek out medical attention at the first signs of foot pain or anything that may hinder your ability to walk in a normal manner. Taking care of your feet is one of the first steps to being able to live a full and healthy life.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our podiatrists located in Novi.  We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs. And we can answer any questions you may have about non-surgical treatments for hammer toe.