Mallet Toes at Foot and Ankle Clinic DRHC Dubai

Overview

Mallet toe is a condition characterized by the abnormal bending of the toe at the joint nearest the tip, causing it to curl downward. This condition most commonly affects the second toe but can occur in any of the lesser toes. Mallet toes can cause discomfort, pain, and difficulty in wearing shoes. At DRHC Dubai, we offer both minimally invasive and open surgical options to correct mallet toes, tailored to meet the individual needs of our patients.

Causes of Mallet Toes

Several factors can contribute to the development of mallet toes, including:

• Footwear: Wearing tight shoes or high heels can push the toes into a bent position.
• Trauma: Injury to the toe can cause the distal joint to bend abnormally.
• Muscle Imbalance: An imbalance between the muscles and tendons in the toe can lead to deformities.
• Arthritis: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis can cause joint inflammation and mallet toes.
• Genetics: Inherited foot structures can predispose individuals to develop mallet toes.

Symptom of Mallet Toes

• Toe Deformity: The tip of the toe bends downward, resembling a mallet.
• Pain and Discomfort: Particularly when wearing shoes or walking.
• Corns and Calluses: Forming on the tip of the toe due to friction against footwear.
• Redness and Swelling: Around the affected joint.
• Difficulty Moving the Toe: Limited range of motion in the affected toe.

Diagnosis and Tests for Mallet Toes

How are mallet toes diagnosed?

Mallet toes should get diagnosed by a healthcare provider. You can start with your primary care physician (PCP) or visit a podiatrist (foot and ankle doctor). Mallet toes usually just need a thorough physical exam. Your provider will:

• Look at your footwear.
• Likely check the toe’s flexibility.
• Possibly do a gait analysis, to assess the way you walk.
• Take an X-ray of your foot.
• Perform a foot and ankle exam.
• Debride (remove) any painful skin or nail.

The physical exam can help determine if you’re putting added pressure or stress on the affected toe. In some cases, your healthcare provider may also order imaging tests. An X-ray will rule out any toe fractures (broken bones).

Treatment for Mallet Toes

Conservative Management

• Footwear Adjustments: Wearing shoes with a wider toe box and avoiding high heels can alleviate pressure on the toes.
• Orthotic Devices: Custom-made insoles can help realign the foot and reduce pain.
• Padding: Corn and callus pads can provide relief from pressure and friction.
• Physical Therapy: Exercises and stretches to strengthen and improve flexibility in the foot muscles.

Surgical Treatment

When conservative measures are insufficient, surgical intervention may be necessary. At DRHC Dubai, we offer both minimally invasive and open surgical techniques to correct mallet toes:

1. Minimally Invasive Surgery
   • Procedure: Small incisions are made to release or realign the tendons and joints in the toe. Techniques such as percutaneous tenotomy or capsulotomy are commonly used.
   • Benefits: Reduced scarring, less pain, and quicker recovery compared to traditional open surgery.
   • Recovery: Patients typically experience a shorter hospital stay and a faster return to normal activities.
2. Open Surgery
   • Procedure: A larger incision is made to directly access and correct the bone deformities. This may involve removing a small piece of bone or realigning the bones with pins or screws.
   • Benefits: Allows for more extensive correction in severe cases of mallet toes.
   • Recovery: Longer recovery period compared to minimally invasive surgery, but highly effective for significant deformities.

Prevention

To prevent the development or worsening of mallet toes:

• Wear Proper Footwear: Choose shoes that fit well and have adequate toe room.
• Foot Exercises: Regularly perform exercises to maintain flexibility and strength in the toes.
• Avoid High Heels: Limit wearing high-heeled shoes that can force the toes into a bent position.
• Manage Underlying Conditions: Properly treat conditions like arthritis that can lead to toe deformities.

Why Choose DRHC Dubai?

At DRHC Dubai, our team of highly skilled orthopedic surgeons is dedicated to providing the best possible care for patients with mallet toes. We utilize the latest surgical techniques and state-of-the-art equipment to ensure optimal outcomes. Our personalized treatment plans are designed to address the unique needs of each patient, promoting faster recovery and improved quality of life.

By offering a comprehensive range of treatment options, we ensure personalized care for each patient, addressing their unique needs and preferences. Experience compassionate and expert care for Mallet Toes at DRHC Dubai, where your foot health is our priority. Call +97142798200 to book your appointment now.