Hammertoe: meaning, definitions and examples
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hammertoe
[ ˈhæmərtoʊ ]
medical condition
Hammertoe is a deformity of one or both of the second, third, or fourth toes, characterized by a bend in the middle joint, causing the toe to resemble a hammer. This condition often occurs due to muscle imbalances and can be aggravated by ill-fitting shoes. Hammertoe can lead to pain, discomfort, and difficulty in walking. Treatment options vary from conservative measures like orthotics and exercises to surgical interventions for severe cases.
Synonyms
toe contraction, toe deformity.
Examples of usage
- She was diagnosed with a hammertoe last year.
- Wearing tight shoes can worsen a hammertoe condition.
- Exercises can help alleviate the symptoms of hammertoe.
- He opts for custom shoes to accommodate his hammertoe.
Translations
Translations of the word "hammertoe" in other languages:
🇵🇹 dedão em martelo
🇮🇳 हैमरटो
🇩🇪 Hammerzeh
🇮🇩 jari kaki bengkok
🇺🇦 молотковий палець
🇵🇱 palec młotkowy
🇯🇵 ハンマートー
🇫🇷 orteil en marteau
🇪🇸 dedo en martillo
🇹🇷 çekiç parmak
🇰🇷 망치 발가락
🇸🇦 إصبع المطرقة
🇨🇿 kloboukový prst
🇸🇰 klobúkový prst
🇨🇳 锤子趾
🇸🇮 klobukasti prst
🇮🇸 hamarfingur
🇰🇿 балға бармақ
🇬🇪 ხამერჩილი
🇦🇿 mərmər barmaq
🇲🇽 dedo en martillo
Etymology
The term 'hammertoe' is derived from the combination of the word 'hammer' and 'toe', illustrating the shape of the toe when affected by the condition. The word 'hammer' describes the action of bending at the middle joint, making the toe appear as if it is curled downwards, much like a hammer. The use of the term likely emerged in the 19th century, as the medical community began to formally recognize various foot deformities and their anatomical underpinnings. The awareness and diagnosis of hammertoe have since evolved, particularly with the advancement of orthopedic science and footwear design. Today, hammertoe is widely acknowledged in the field of podiatry, highlighting the importance of proper foot care and appropriate footwear choices to prevent and treat this condition.