Hammertoe is a deformity of the second, third, or fourth toes.
In this condition, the toe is bent at the middle joint, causing
it to resemble a hammer. Left untreated, hammertoes can become
inflexible and require surgery. People with hammertoe may have
corns or calluses on the top of the middle joint of the toe or
on the tip of the toe. They may also feel pain in their toes or
feet and have difficulty finding comfortable shoes. Causes of
hammertoe include improperly fitting shoes and muscle imbalance.
Treatment for the condition typically involves wearing shoes
with soft, roomy toe boxes and toe exercises to stretch and
strengthen the muscles. Commercially available straps, cushions,
or nonmedicated corn pads may also relieve symptoms. In severe
cases, hammertoe surgery may be recommended to correct the
deformity.