Got Those Toe Woes?

You’ve got a pain right there, in your second toe. You could have a mallet toe, hammer toe or a claw toe. Let’s explain.

Each of your four smaller toes has three bones. The toes normally lie flat, but pressure on the toes or the front of the foot can cause one or more joints (where two bones connect) to bend. This curls the toe. The result: the mallet, hammer or claw toe.

* With a mallet toe, the joint nearest the tip of the toe is bent.

* With a hammer toe, the middle joint is bent.

* With a claw toe, the joint at the base of the toe is bent up; the middle joint is bent down.

Often the problem is caused by wearing shoes that are too short (not allowing the toe to fully extend) or heels that are too high. Painful corns and calluses may form.

If you have one of these conditions, see a doctor. X-rays may be necessary to rule out other ailments. In some cases, surgery may be needed to straighten the toes.

As a preventive step, wear shoes that fit properly and ones with low heels. You may also want to try some toe exercises (you won’t need to go the gym for these). Exercises can help strengthen the toes and keep the joints from getting stiff. Put a marble on a carpeted floor. Curl your toes over it and pick it up, and release. Repeat 20 times.

You can also try placing a large, sturdy rubber band around all five toes. Spread your toes out and hold for five seconds, and release. Repeat 10 times.

Source: StayWell Co.