Aching, irritating, arched joints are common signs of hammer toes, and anyone that has experienced or is currently experiencing them will know just how frustrating they can be. Luckily, there are a few things one can do to alleviate some of the symptoms aside from surgery, including knowing how to fix hammer toes with tape. Taping your toes should be done in a specific manner, but there are some other measures that should be taken beforehand.
Determining Whether Or Not You Have Hammer Toes
Before you attempt to properly wrap your toes with tape, it is important to determine whether or not you actually have hammer toes. To the untrained eye, it can be difficult to distinguish the difference between something like hammer toes, claw toe, mallet toe, and corns. When you notice an abnormality has begun to form anywhere on your foot, you need to distinguish what the correct affliction might be.
In the case of hammer toes, it typically occurs on the second, third, and sometimes the fourth toe right along the middle joint. They take on an arched hump look that can cause pain and discomfort for the person afflicted, forcing the toe to curl downward at the joint. A person can be born with this condition or genetically predisposed to it, but generally, it develops due to tight-fitted shoes, arthritis, a foot injury, or continuous pressure from an external source. If you cannot discern whether or not you have hammer toes, consult a physician for clarification.
How to Fix Hammer Toes With Tape
The process of taping hammertoes is a relatively simple one if you take the time to understand how to properly do so. Begin by wrapping under the toe nearest the afflicted toe, then bringing it up and over said toe, covering the top of the bent joint. Proceed by bringing the tape down the other side of the afflicted toe, wrapping it, and bringing it back to the original toe positioned beside it. This should hopefully work to straighten out the bent toe temporarily, relieving any built-up tension or pain. Wrapping tape can be found at most stores with a pharmacy section.
The Permanent Solution
While there are several methods one can use to alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with hammer toes, there is only one true way to best deal with ailment: surgery. In severe cases, this may realistically be the only viable treatment option. By getting hammer toe surgery, you can restore flexibility, realign the joints and tendons, and reposition any deformed bones that may have warped over time. If you wish to gain full mobility of your bent toes and return to walking almost immediately after surgery, a minimally invasive surgical procedure is your best bet.
Closing Thoughts
Now that you know how to fix hammer toes with tape, you can reduce some of the pain that infects your toe joints. However, if you’re ready to get rid of them entirely and save the tape for another time, it might be best to go ahead and get surgery. Not only can Northwest Surgery Center give you the care you need, but our minimally invasive techniques can have you up and out the door on the same day.
Want to learn more about hammer toe surgery? Let us know by reaching out or calling our toll-free number at 800-873-1060.
