What are Hammertoes?

Hammertoe is a deformity of the second, third, fourth or fifth toes. In this condition, the toe is bent at the middle joint, causing it to resemble a hammer. This abnormal bending of the joint causes pressure on the toes when wearing shoes, causing problems to develop. Hammertoes start off flexible (mild) and become more inflexible (rigid) with time and may require surgery. People with hammertoes may have corns or calluses on the top of the middle joint of the toe or on the tip of the toe.

Causes

Hammertoes are caused from improperly fitting shoes as well as repetitive trauma, genetic predisposition, and muscle imbalance. The muscle imbalance can occur as a result of structural changes that occur due to altered biomechanics.

Symptoms

• Pain and swelling in the affected toes
• Corns on top or at the end of the toe or between the toes
• Calluses on the bottom of the feet
• Inflammation, redness or burning sensation to the toe
• Contracture of the toe
• Difficulty fitting into shoes

Diagnosis

Hammertoes are very easily diagnosed clinically; however your podiatrist will obtain a thorough history of your symptoms and examine your feet. You may also be required to get an x-ray to help determine the severity of the deformity and proper course of treatment.