Hammertoe: A Clinical Guide

Hammertoe is a foot condition where one or more toes bend abnormally at the middle joint, resembling a hammer’s shape. This can cause discomfort, especially when wearing tight shoes, and may lead to corns or calluses on the top of the affected toe. The condition often results from muscle imbalance, injury, or footwear that forces the toe into a bent position. In some cases, it can be flexible, but if untreated, it may become rigid and more painful. Treatment options include proper footwear, exercises, or in severe cases, surgery to correct the toe’s position.