Hammertoe is a deformity of the second, third, fourth and fifth toes. In this
condition, the toe is bent at the middle joint, resembling 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 shoes with soft, roomy toe boxes and toe exercises to stretch and strengthen the muscles. Commercially available straps, cushions or non-medicated corn pads may also relieve symptoms. Surgical correction is an available treatment option.
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| There are 26 bones plus 33 joints in the human foot. |
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