When you have diabetes, then chances are that you will acquire foot problems. One common diabetic foot problem is a condition called hammer toes. This issue often causes pain and discomfort and may make walking difficult. Fortunately, there are things you can do to lessen your chance of hammer toes and most other diabetes-related foot problems.

What Are Hammer Toes?

Hammer toes is a condition where one or more of your toes stays in a contracted position. Normally, your toes are fairly straight. With hammer toes, one or more toes curl up into an almost hammer shape and often rub against the top of your shoe. This condition is caused by a problem with the muscles and tendons in the toes and foot.

How Do Hammer Toes Happen?

While some people are born with hammer toes, most people acquire them by abusing their feet. One of the most common causes of hammer toes is wearing shoes that are too small or wearing pointy high-heeled shoes. If you've broken a toe, then that toe may also curl up. Age is also another factor.

Why Do Diabetics Get Hammer Toes?

Diabetics often suffer from a nerve condition called diabetic neuropathy. This condition affects the nerves in the extremities, such as the hands and feet, first. With neuropathy, you would likely not feel normal pain sensations that tell you that you have a problem with your feet until that problem becomes severe. In addition to hammer toes, you may also experience calluses and sores, but you may not be aware of them until they get infected.

Can Hammer Toes Be Fixed?

If your toes are still flexible, then non-surgical treatment is still possible. Your toes may be splinted to keep them straight. You can also use anti-inflammatory medications and massage your feet to reduce swelling and increase blood flow. However, once your hammer toes have become rigid, then you will likely need surgery, especially if the condition is causing pain.

How Can Hammer Toes Be Prevented?

You can reduce your chance of getting hammer toes, or other diabetes-related foot problems, by keeping your blood sugar levels steady and by paying extra attention to your feet. Also, do not wear high-heeled shoes (shoes with a heel over two inches), shoes that are too small, or shoes that force you to cram your toes into the end.

When you have diabetes, then take good care of your feet so that you can keep walking as usual. When you have difficulty walking, then your quality of life suffers. Make sure you examine your feet regularly and see your doctor for diabetic foot care if you notice any anomalies.