What causes hammertoes?
Hammertoes are typically the result of faulty function (biomechanics) of the foot which lead to an imbalance of the muscle and tendons which pull on the toes. This causes the toes to bend or buckle at one or both of the toe joints. Poor fitting shoes can also contribute to the formation and symptoms associated with hammertoes. Trauma, such as breaking a toe, can also occasionally lead to the formation of a hammertoe. Symptoms The buckling of the toe often leads to painful rubbing from shoes on the prominent portion of the toe. This can lead to callus formation and inflammation of the area. If left untreated, callus formation can progress to ulceration. Hammertoes can also lead to pain and callus formation on the bottom of the foot due to increased pressure created by the buckling of the toe. Treatment In the early stages of hammertoes, the deformities are usually mild and flexible. If left untreated, the deformities will worsen and in many cases become rigid. The chances of a positive
