Hammertoes are a common foot condition that causes the toes to bend abnormally. Over time, the deformity can become more severe as the muscles and tendons in the toes become tighter. Without treatment, hammertoes can cause pain and difficulty walking.

Hammertoes occur when one of the joints in your toe is bent abnormally or permanently. This causes the toe to bend downward instead of pointing forward. The condition can affect any toe on your foot, but it is most common for your second, third, or fourth toes to be affected.

The causes of hammertoe vary from person to person. Generally speaking, it is caused by an imbalance between the strength of muscles and tendons that control the positioning of the toes. Shoes that are too tight or have high heels may also contribute to developing a hammertoe.

The symptoms of hammertoe include pain and difficulty walking due to the abnormal shape of the toes. In addition, the bent joint may rub against your shoe, causing corns, calluses, or other skin irritations. If left untreated, a hammertoe can become more severe and lead to further complications, such as an infection or even arthritis in the joint.

If you suspect you have a hammertoe, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Your doctor may recommend non-surgical treatments such as wearing wider shoes while allowing room for the toes to straighten out naturally over time. In some cases, surgery may be required to realign the affected toe.

If you are interested in non-surgical procedures, read the infographic below to learn more about the treatment options available. Hammertoe is a common foot condition but can be treated with the right care and attention.