Hammertoes, or “crooked toes” is a very common problem. Most people do not possess straight toes. A slight bend in a toe is considered to be normal. However, if a toe begins to change its shape and, as a consequence, begins to rub on a shoe or contact the ground too rigidly, often skin changes develop beneath, at the tip of, in between, or on the tops of toes. These skin changes are called “corns” and can be very painful.
If the problem is a chronic one, and removal of the skin changes is not satisfactory in relieving pain, then there are a variety of treatments, some surgical and some non-surgical, that are designed to alleviate pain and allow for more comfortable wearing of shoe gear.
At the Southwest Foot Institute, we discuss these conditions with our patients, and attempt to guide them in making an informed decision regarding their options for treatment.
