Hammertoe or Mallet Toe

Hammertoe or Mallet Toe is a deformity affecting the middle joints of the toes, causing them to curl downward. It is typically caused by factors such as ill-fitting footwear, genetics, injuries, and toe length. Symptoms can include toe pain, corns, calluses, and inflammation. Early treatment options focus on wearing comfortable shoes, using orthotic devices, employing splints and pads, and in severe cases, surgical intervention may be required. Elite Foot Care offers expert treatment to manage hammertoe on the Sunshine Coast.

What is Hammertoe?

Hammertoe is a deformity that affects the middle joints of the toes, causing them to curl downward instead of pointing forward. It most commonly occurs in the second toe and is characterised by an abnormal bend in the toe joint. This condition results from an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, and ligaments that normally keep the toe straight.

Hammertoe - Elite Foot Care Sunshine Coast Podiatrists

Causes of Hammertoe

Several factors contribute to the development of hammertoe, which include:

  • Footwear: Wearing shoes that are too tight or narrow can push the toes into a bent position, leading to hammertoe over time.
  • Genetics: A hereditary predisposition can increase the risk of developing this condition.
  • Injury: Previous injuries to the toe may lead to a hammertoe.
  • Toe Length: A longer second toe can be forced into a bent position, particularly if shoes are fitted to accommodate just the big toe, promoting hammertoe progression.

Symptoms to Look Out For

The symptoms of hammertoe vary depending on the severity but may include:

  • Pain or discomfort when wearing shoes.
  • Presence of corns or calluses over the top of the toe joint due to friction.
  • Redness and inflammation.
  • Open sores in severe cases.

Diagnosing Hammertoe

Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination by a podiatrist. They will evaluate the toe’s range of motion and may use X-rays to assess any underlying bone deformities.

Hammertoe Treatment Options

Early intervention is crucial for effective management of hammertoe:

  • Footwear Adjustments: Choosing shoes with a wide toe box can alleviate pressure on the hammertoe.
  • Orthotic Devices: Custom orthotics help address muscle imbalances and provide support.
  • Splints and Pads: These can help realign the toe and reduce friction.
  • Surgical Intervention: For toes that have become rigid and painful, surgery may be necessary to straighten the toe and restore function.

 

Read more about our Sunshine Coast treatments for Hammertoe:

Sunshine Coast Custom Orthotics

Custom Orthotics

A custom orthotic supports and aligns your lower limb putting the muscles and joints it in a position of congruence. Elite Foot Care has a state of the art custom orthotics manufacturing lab on the Sunshine Coast. This allows us to have complete control over the manufacturing process, resulting in

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Footwear Assessment

Footwear Assessments

Elite Foot Care have access to a broad range of footwear designed for all walks of life at our Woombye and Sippy Downs locations! As part of our podiatry service, our podiatrists are able to provide you with the suitable, recommended footwear options from our own footwear store. Alternatively we

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Footwear Modification - Elite Foot Care

Footwear Modifications

Footwear modifications involve making specific adjustments to shoes to enhance their fit, comfort, functionality, and support. These modifications can address a range of foot and lower limb issues, helping to prevent pain and injury while promoting optimal foot health.

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Exercise Prescription - Elite Foot Care

Exercise Prescription

Exercise prescription using the VALD Performance Assessment system involves tailoring rehabilitation programs based on detailed biomechanical analysis. This approach allows for the design of progressive rehab programs aimed at addressing specific patient needs, optimising recovery, and enhancing overall performance.

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Preventive Measures

To prevent or slow the progression of hammertoe, consider the following steps:

  • Wear shoes that fit well with ample toe space.
  • Avoid high heels or shoes that constrict the toes.
  • Perform regular foot exercises to maintain muscle balance and joint flexibility.

 

At Elite Foot Care, we provide a dedicated approach to diagnosing and treating hammertoe. Our professional podiatrists will guide you through the most suitable treatments, ensuring optimal foot health. If you’re experiencing any signs of hammertoe, book an appointment online or call our friendly reception staff on 07 5328 3588.

Jay Lewis Podiatrist - Elite Foot Care
Jarrod McGuinness Podiatrist - Elite Foot Care
Dean Taylor - Elite Foot Care
Daniel Neil - Elite Foot Care
Ajay Mahadev - Elite Foot Care Podiatrist
Josh Taylor - Elite Foot Care Podiatrist
Gabrielle Riach - Elite Foot Care

Our Therapists

Our team of Podiatrists have decades of experience treating all hip, knee, leg, ankle, foot and heel pain as well as a range of skin and nail conditions including ingrown toenails, fungal nail infections and more.

They share a passion for helping the community stay strong and active, helping them achieve their ultimate health outcomes. 

Their experience combined with the best treatment technologies available, allow us to achieve the best outcomes for our community.

Benefits of a personalised treatment plan

Reduced Pain

Using the worlds best treatment technology and methods, we can accelerate your recovery to achieve your ultimate health outcome sooner.

Increased Strength

With a prescribed exercise rehab program, your surrounding muscles will strengthen and take the load off your affected tissue. The result is lasting pain relief.

Become More Active

Working with your Podiatrist to complete your personalised treatment plan, you'll be able to do more of the things you love with friends and family.

How it works

1. Schedule an Appointment

Book online or call one of our friendly reception staff on 07 5328 3588 to find a time that suits you.

2. We Handle the Details

Our experienced Podiatrists will diagnose, create a custom treatment plan and treat in the very first session.

3. Be More Active With Less Pain

Spend more time with your family and friends being active and doing the things you love.

What you'll get...

Experienced Podiatrists

Our Podiatrists have decades of experience treating an array of conditions.

Comprehensive Consultations

Our Podiatrists will leave no stone unturned in finding the root cause of your issue.

Personalised Treatment Plans

Our Podiatrists will create a truly custom treatment plan to achieve your ideal outcomes.

Communication

Our Podiatrists will clearly explain your condition, providing insight into its nature and treatment options.

Best Treatment Technology

We utilise state-of-the-art treatment technologies including: Shockwave Therapy, 3D Laser Scanners, Lunula Fungal Nail Laser to provide our patients with the best possible care. 

On-site Manufacturing

Our on-site orthotics manufacturing lab allows us to do same or next day orthotic dispenses.

Begin your journey to a pain free future.

Woombye Podiatrists

4/40 Wilson Avenue, Woombye, 4559

Sippy Downs Podiatrists

15 Fairfax Street, Sippy Downs, 4556
(level 2 in Fairfax Village building)