Hammertoes are a common foot condition in which one or more of the toes become bent at the middle joint, causing them to curl downward instead of lying flat. This can cause pain and discomfort when walking, as well as difficulty finding comfortable shoes.
Hammertoes can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, wearing poorly fitting shoes, and muscle or nerve damage in the foot. Women and older adults are more likely to develop hammertoes.
Symptoms of hammertoes include:
- Toe pain or discomfort
- Corns or calluses on the affected toe
- Difficulty finding shoes that fit comfortably
- Decreased flexibility in the affected toe
- Swelling or redness in the affected toe
Treatment for hammertoes depends on the severity of the condition. In mild cases, conservative measures such as wearing properly fitting shoes with a wide toe box, using cushioned insoles or pads to relieve pressure on the toe, and doing toe exercises to stretch and strengthen the toe muscles may be sufficient.
In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to straighten the toe and restore normal function. Surgery can involve removing part of the bone or releasing the tendons and ligaments that are causing the toe to bend.
If you are experiencing symptoms of hammertoes, it is important to seek medical attention for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Early intervention can help prevent the condition from worsening and reduce the risk of complications.