WHAT ARE DIGITAL DEFORMITIES AND HOW CAN THEY BE TREATED?

Are your feet functioning the way they’re supposed to? It’s surprising how many people let foot conditions go unchecked, and perhaps even more surprising, is how many people don’t realise when they’re feet are in poor health.

Digital deformities (toe deformities) are a condition that affects a lot of people; and that’s often left untreated. However, with a little education, you’ll be able to quickly recognise the signs of a digital deformity, allowing you to seek treatment from your podiatrist and ultimately relieve the pain and discomfort you’re experiencing.

So, what are digital deformities and what causes them to form in the first place?

Digital deformities can present themselves in a few different ways. The most common types of deformities are misshapen toes, including hammertoes, claw toes, mallet toes, bone spurs and overlapping or underlapping toes. However, symptoms can also include callouses, nail deformities, and the onset of corns.

When digital deformities occur in adult patients, it’s often because of an imbalance with their tendons that cause them to stretch or tighten abnormally. This particular condition is also more prevalent among people with abnormally long toes, flat feet or high arches.

Most manifestations of digital deformities will cause a certain level of pain or discomfort, the severity of which will depend on each specific case. For instance, the following situations/ailments can increase the level of pain suffered:

• Arthritis
• Poorly fitting footwear
• Fractured or broken toes that have healed poorly; and
• Long periods of standing or activity, including playing sports

Can You Prevent the Formation of Digital Deformities?

Everyday activities like walking, playing sport or standing for long periods of time can put extra strain on your feet, and can lead to the onset of a digital deformity in the toes. However, care can be taken to reduce the likelihood of developing this condition.

You can:

• Wear supportive, properly fitted footwear
• Get regular check-ups with your Perth podiatrist; and
• Keep an eye on the appearance of your feet, as well as any discomfort you might experience on a day-to-day basis. This will help you recognise any uncomfortable changes in your feet and toes, alerting you to when you need to seek treatment

If you’re experiencing any pain or discomfort in your toes, feet, ankles or lower legs, talk to the team at Cannington Podiatry today! Our team of Perth podiatrists will be able to talk you through any symptoms you have, assess the condition of your feet, ankles and knees, and provide a treatment/prevention plan that has been developed specifically for your needs.