HAMMERTOES

Hammertoes are a foot abnormality that occurs when the muscles, tendons and ligaments tighten and cause the toe to curl, making a hammertoe.   A hammertoe has an abnormal bend in the middle joint of the toe.  

SYMPTOMS

They most frequently occur in the middle three toes.  Several causes of hammertoes are foot structure, trauma, certain disease processes and the type of shoes you wear. 

TREATMENT

Hammertoes can sometimes be painful.  Relieving the pain and pressure of the hammertoe may involve changing footwear and wearing shoe inserts.  Sometimes padding the hammertoe can relieve the pain.   

Rigid hammertoes sometimes need corrective surgery if they cause problems such as blisters, pain or stiffness.