Treatment of finger and toe deformities

Finger deformities are structural changes in the position of the joints of the fingers or toes, which can be congenital or acquired (e.g. due to osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, injuries or overload).

The most common include:

Hand:

• Claw finger
• Swan neck
• Stiffness after injury
• Dupuytren's contracture

Foot:

• Hallux valgus (bunion)
• Hammer toe
• Crossed toes
• Rigid toe (hallux rigidus)

• Genetics (heredity, birth defects)
• Degenerative changes – arthrosis, osteoarthritis
• Inflammatory diseases – rheumatoid arthritis, gout
• Improper footwear (especially on the feet)
• Injuries and overload
• Neurological disorders (e.g. in diabetics or after a stroke)

No. In addition to appearance, they can cause:

• Pain with movement or at rest
• Limited function (e.g. difficulty walking, grip)
• Bruises and corns
• Inflammation of joints and tendons
• Difficulty choosing shoes or handling objects

It depends on the extent and cause. Options include:

Conservative treatment:

• Special orthoses, splints or correctors
• Physiotherapy and exercises to strengthen and stretch the fingers
• Anti-inflammatory drugs or injection therapy
• Ergonomic aids (e.g. shoe inserts)

Surgical treatment:

• Corrective operations on joints or tendons
• Releasing contractures or removing the deformed part
• Arthrodesis (immobilizing the painful joint)
• Reconstructive surgery (especially in the hand)

• Usually several weeks to months
• Includes rest, followed by rehabilitation and possibly wearing a brace
• Early warm-up is important for the hand to prevent stiffness
• A temporary shoe may be necessary for the foot

To some extent, yes:

• Wear comfortable shoes with enough room for your toes
• Avoid excessive strain on your hands and feet
• Regularly stretch and strengthen small joints
• Treat pain early and don't ignore the first signs of deformity