Did you know our fifth toe serves no biomechanical purpose? It exists for the sole reason of bumping into furniture and hurting in shoes. As a podiatrist, I see many patients who come in with pain in their fifth toe. A small digit with a lot of pain causing disruption to the lives of patients of all different ages. A curled toe is called a hammertoe.
Why do pinky toes curl?
Because the muscle tendons overpower the small area. The more we walk and run on it – the more the muscles pull, the worse the hammertoe becomes. Sometimes a small bone spur can make it worse.
Why does the hammertoe hurt? Because it is irritated in shoes, frequently causing skin buildup – otherwise known as corns that grow and make it even worse. Sometimes stubbing the toe can cause chronic pain in the area as well.
What can be done? A wider, more supportive shoe will go a long way. If a wide clunky sneaker is not appropriate for my patient, I will consider custom chosen gel padding to take the pressure off the area to relieve pain. Separators are also available to temporarily re-align the toe. Custom made orthotics will greatly help the biomechanics of the muscle pull and relieve the irritation.
As a last resort, surgical correction of the fifth hammertoe deformity is commonly available. The bone can be corrected, allowing the muscle tendons to resume work without overpowering.
When to worry? Sharp, stabbing, non relenting pain. Redness or swelling that will not budge with larger shoes. Any open wound on the toe. Feeling numbness in the digit is also a reason for concern. If you are concerned, make an appointment at an Advanced Foot Care office for proper evaluation and treatment
