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Deformities of the lesser toes

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Toe deformities

Deformities of the lesser toes can be very painful. Although a number of surgical and non surgical treatments exist there may be underlying condition of which a deformity is a symptom. As such an early assessment by an orthopaedic surgeon is vital to allow the patient to continue to enjoy their daily activities without impairment. Toe deformities can have a detrimental effect on the quality of life. As deformities can cause muscular pain in the foot a patient may find it difficult to walk and if the problem is not treated it can lead to other problems like skin infections and muscular problems.

Conditions

When pushing off while walking, the lesser toes are important to bearing the weight, and the pressure is then supported by the big toe and ball of foot. A variety of causes can lead to lesser toe deformities such as inadequate footwear such as pointed shoes or tight toe shoes (where the footwear holds the foot or toes in an unnatural shape, injury to in part of the foot or toes, arthritis, metabolic or neuromuscular diseases like cerebral palsy and born with genetics.

Causes

Common toe deformities include hammer toes, claw toes, mallet toes, curly toes, crossover toes and bunions. The sufferer will find walking difficult in all these conditions as due to the position of the toe relative to the feet. Other symptoms can include problems like swelling, redness, sores and calluses all of which may need separate treatment in their own right. Even though diabetes is not a direct cause of lesser toe deformities, those who suffer from diabetes and neuropathy may not notice when a toe becomes painful.

Treatment

Common toe deformities can often be treated by means other than surgery but for those who do not respond well surgery can be very effective. Non surgical treatments can include pads or gel cushions to reduce pressure or wraps and toe inserts to properly align the toes. Surgery may involve reconstruction of the soft tissues, bones, or a combination of both.

Remember

While some causes of lesser toe deformities are not preventable, one of the most common causes is footwear. Shoes that don't fit well are responsible for many toe deformities as well as other foot problems. It is important to be aware of the type of footwear to use and well fitting shoes that do not pinch or constrict the foot are always best to prevent toe deformities.

For further information about Heel Pain Causes visit http://www.drfoot.co.uk
For further information about Over Pronation and Pronation