Understanding Deformed Toes can Make Better Support Possible

For individuals who suffer from a chronic condition, deformity, or other health concern, it can be difficult to explain just how much it can affect their life. Whether you are someone, know someone, or work with an individuals who struggles with deformed toes, making an effort to learn more about the potential causes and symptoms may help you relate to other individuals in a more effective way.

Are Toe Deformities All About Footwear?

It is a common idea that hammertoes are caused by regular use of high heels or other shoes that put a lot of pressure directly on the toe. While negatively restrictive footwear can certainly cause orthopedic problems, it may not be the primary cause for your toe deformity, or that of another individual.

You may develop certain deformities as a result of damage to the muscles or nerves of the foot. Such damage can be the result of conditions that can cause severe weakness in muscles and other tissues of the body. Diabetes is known to cause negative symptoms in the feet, and could result in the development of a deformity if not properly addressed by a medical professional.

Symptoms of Toe Deformities

While you may think that the symptoms that you or other individuals might experience would be isolated to the feet, you would only be partially correct. The severe pain that can result from a toe deformity can cause unnecessary strain of the leg and back muscles, resulting in widespread pain. In addition to pain, walking and even wearing shoes can become problematic when hammertoes or other deformities are allowed to persist.

Even if pain does remain isolated to the foot, overall quality of living can be greatly reduced. Without the ability to move about as you please, you may not pay active attention to your hygienic needs or completely avoid exercise, both of which are important parts of staying healthy and happy. In addition, social and professional needs are less likely to be pursued and can result in issues with mental health and financial stability.

Addressing the Problem

Seeking professional help is usually the best answer when you have a deformity of the foot or toe. As many deformities become worse with time, and may even become permanent, denying the temptation to postpone treatment or intervention is sure to be in your best interest. Discussing how the problem affects your life, day-to-day, as well as your emotional and mental health can help a health care provider determine the type of treatment that is likely to be the most beneficial.

Suffering with the pain that deformed toes can cause can make for a very long and difficult road. By taking the time to understand how deformities can affect your own life, or the life of others who are afflicted, you should be able to show more support, provide better care, or simply offer more sincere understanding in regards to their situation.
Source:

Footankledc.com, “Toe Deformation/Claw Toe/Hammer Toe”, The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.