Hammertoes
- Abnormal bend in the middle joint of a toe
- Pain or pressure when wearing shoes
- Corns or calluses on top of the affected toe
- Restricted range of motion
What Is a Hammertoe?
A hammertoe is a deformity causing a toe to bend abnormally at the middle joint, resembling a hammer. It typically affects the second, third, or fourth toe and often develops alongside bunions or ill-fitting footwear. Early hammertoes are flexible; as the condition progresses, the joint becomes rigid.
Treatment
Flexible hammertoes respond well to toe exercises, stretching, padding, and footwear changes. Custom orthotics can slow progression. When the hammertoe becomes rigid or painful enough to affect daily life, minimally invasive surgical correction offers excellent results with smaller incisions and faster healing than traditional open techniques.