Hammertoes
What is a hammertoe?
A hammertoe is a condition in which the middle joint of the toe has an abnormal bend due to a weakened muscle, which causes the toes to curl under the feet, like the bend of a hammer.
What are the causes?
A hammertoe commonly affects the toe directly next to the big toe. There are many possible causes of hammertoes including wearing tight or high-heeled shoes, jamming or breaking your toe, as well as heredity.
Hammertoes are more common in women than men, and your chances to develop a hammertoe increases as you age.
Common symptoms
Symptoms of a hammertoe include the bending of your toe which is typically very uncomfortable and painful. It is possible that the toe may also develop calluses.
Treatment Options
There is a variety of possible treatments for hammertoes that will vary from person to person. It is recommended to wear shoes that give plenty of room for you toes, and commonly go along with orthotics to help support the natural structure of your toes.
Other treatments may include injections, stretching exercises, and possibly even surgery may be needed.