This Q&A post is part of our ‘Ask Scilla Wilsdon Chiropody Questions‘ series.
Q. I have some problems with a sore spot on my toe. A small patch of hard skin or spot has developed on my middle toes. I wanted to know which kind of treatment you would recommend for this condition? I’ve tried many things now and I’m out of ideas now.
A. Thank you for your enquiry and it was particularly helpful to have a picture of your toe. This certainly looks painful and very sore.
Before offering advice on chiropody treatment, I would need to know if you are diabetic or if you have any circulatory problems, or if you are taking any medication, such as Warfarin. This is because any treatment would have to take these factors into consideration. You say you have tried many treatments but do not say what these are.
Your 2nd toe is what is called a “hammer toe” caused either by a structural defect or more often by shoes without sufficient depth or width. This is why footwear needs to be chosen carefully with these factors in mind.
Because your toe looks red and angry, infection must be avoided, and the following home treatment may ease your problem somewhat, and would be perfectly safe to carry out. Soak your foot in a bowl of warm water, to which has been added a tablespoon of salt water. This should be carried out once daily. The foot should be dried and an antiseptic cream, such as Savlon applied, together with a non-adherent dressing (obtainable from a chemist shop) until the toe looks less angry and inflamed.
Chiropody treatment should then be sought, but until such time as you are able to do this, you could obtain from any chemist shop a product called “Toe-foam”. This is a foam tube which can be cut to size and placed over your hammer toe in order to provide palliative relief.
Medical Disclaimer: Information contained within this blog is for general information and educational purposes only. While I have endeavored to ensure the accuracy of information contained within this blog, this information should not be used for diagnosis, nor should it be considered a replacement for consultation with a health care professional. Please consult with your physician or appropriate health care provider about the applicability of any products, opinions, or recommendations with respect to your personal symptoms or medical conditions. See Full Disclaimer
