There are many types of crooked toes, including hammertoe, mallet toe, claw toe, curly toe, and overlapping toe. These abnormalities may be caused by a genetic disposition, tight or ill-fitting shoes, injury or trauma, or obesity. Nerve damage and joint damage are other possible causes. If left untreated, any of these types of crooked toes may cause further complications, the most common of which are pain and irritation when wearing shoes. Other problems that may develop from crooked toes are inflammation, open sores, corns, and calluses. Treatment options depend on the type, severity, and length of the particular condition. The first suggestion for treating any type of crooked toe is to change footwear to accommodate it. This may include buying shoes that fit correctly or not wearing certain types of shoes, such as high heels. Various exercises, taping, splints, and surgery are other treatment options. If the pain from a crooked toe worsens, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist. This foot specialist can examine the toe and make a determination on how best to treat it.
Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Bangor Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Causes Toe Pain?
Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.
Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
- Trauma
- Sports injury
- Wearing shoes that are too tight
- Arthritis
- Gout
- Corns and calluses
- Hammertoe
- Bunions
- Blisters
- Ingrown toenails
- Sprains
- Fractures (broken bones)
- Dislocations
When to See a Podiatrist
- Severe pain
- Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
- Signs of infection
- Continued swelling
- Pain that prevents walking
Diagnosis
In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Bangor, Brodheadsville, and Bethlehem, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
