Introduction
Mallet toes are a type of toe deformity where the affected toe is bent at the joint closest to the tip, causing the toe to appear stuck in a downward position.
While other toe conditions like claw and hammer toes involve abnormal joint positioning at multiple locations, mallet toes specifically impact the end joint of the toe.
Although mallet toes can be congenital, most cases develop over time due to underlying factors such as improper footwear, neurological issues, or mechanical foot problems.
Causes of Hammer Toes
Mallet toes develop when an imbalance occurs in the muscles and tendons that control the toe’s movement. Several contributing factors lead to mallet toe deformities, which include:
Primary Causes:
- Congenital abnormalities
- Neurological conditions affecting muscle control and balance
- Peripheral neuropathy and nerve damage
- Muscle weakness or imbalance in the foot muscles
- Spinal cord injuries
- Tight calf musculature
Risk Factors:
- Secondary issue from other foot problems
- Age-related changes
- Inappropriate footwear
- Previous foot injuries or trauma
Hammer Toes Symptoms
In the early stages, mallet toes may not cause significant pain but can lead to discomfort when wearing certain types of footwear. Over time, as the condition progresses, the affected toe becomes more rigid, and symptoms become more pronounced.
Initial symptoms include pain at the tip of the toe, where the bent posture leads to irregular nail growth and hard skin. The affected joint may also become swollen or inflamed due to pressure and rubbing against shoes.
As the condition progresses, the toe may appear stuck in a downward position, with a noticeable bend at the joint. The mallet toe may rub against shoes, which can further cause irritation, blisters, or calluses to form around the area.
As the condition worsens, it can cause significant pain and discomfort, making it difficult to find shoes that fit properly. In more advanced cases, mallet toes may affect your ability to walk comfortably.
Hammer Toes Treatment
Addressing mallet toes early is key to relieving pain and preventing the condition from worsening. Treatment options vary depending on the severity of the deformity, but most cases can be managed without surgery.
Non-Surgical Treatment
Non-surgical treatment for mallet toes primarily aims to relieve pain, reduce pressure, and improve foot function. Some of the most common approaches include:
Choosing shoes with a wider toe box and soft soles can help reduce pressure on the toes. Avoiding narrow, high-heeled shoes is also essential. Protective padding, such as silicone toe caps, can shield the affected area from rubbing against shoes. Cushioned insoles may also help relieve pressure.
Custom orthotic devices can also help realign the foot and redistribute pressure, preventing further damage to the toe joint. Stretching and strengthening exercises can maintain flexibility and prevent the toe from becoming more rigid.
Regular podiatric treatment of corns and calluses helps manage pressure-related skin problems and prevents complications through ongoing maintenance. Stretching and strengthening exercises may also help maintain flexibility where possible.
Mallet Toe Surgery
In cases where conservative treatment does not provide sufficient relief, surgery may be considered. Mallet toe surgery aims to straighten the affected joint and alleviate pain. The specific type of surgery performed will depend on the extent of the deformity and the patient’s overall health.
The type of surgery performed will depend on the problem with your toes and may involve releasing or lengthening tendons, putting joints back into place, straightening a toe and changing the shape of a bone.
Why Choose LFAC?
Mallet toe deformities can worsen over time, leading to significant pain and difficulty with mobility. Early intervention and treatment can prevent further damage and improve your quality of life. Our team of specialists is dedicated to providing individualised care and effective treatment options tailored to your needs.
Using advanced diagnostic tools, we conduct thorough assessments to identify the cause of your mallet toes and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan. Whether you need non-surgical interventions or surgical solutions, we ensure you receive the best care possible.
Our flagship clinic is based at St John & St Elizabeth Hospital in St John’s Wood, but we also offer world-class orthopaedic care at leading locations across London, including:
- London Bridge Hospital
- The Cromwell Hospital
- HCA Chiswick Outpatient & Diagnostic Centre
- New Victoria Hospital
- HCA UK Canary Wharf Clinic
- OneWelbeck
- The Lister Hospital
Wherever you choose to visit us, you can expect expert treatment, cutting-edge facilities, and a commitment to your recovery. Book your consultation today and take the first step toward pain-free movement.
