Have you noticed your toe starting to curl or rub against your shoes in a painful way?

Hammertoe deformities can slowly change the shape of your toes and make even simple steps feel uncomfortable. This common foot condition happens when a toe bends in the middle joint and stays in that position.

Over time, it can cause pain, corns, and trouble finding shoes that fit well. 

View of a woman's feet with pretty sandals.

What Is Hammertoe?

It is a toe deformity where the middle joint bends and stays in a curled position. This change can make the toe rub against shoes and cause pain. Over time, the muscles and tendons become tight and hard to move. The condition may start mild but can get worse without care.

Many people notice discomfort when walking or wearing closed shoes. Corns and calluses may form on the top of the toe from constant pressure. Some toes can still move, while others become stiff and fixed. Early care can help slow the problem and reduce pain.

Common Causes

Poorly fitting shoes are one of the main reasons this problem develops. Tight or high-heeled shoes push the toes into a bent position. Over time, the muscles lose balance and the toe stays curled. This constant pressure slowly changes the shape of the toe.

Foot injuries can also lead to this condition by damaging muscles and joints. Some people are born with foot structures that make them more likely to have toe issues. Nerve problems, such as those from diabetes, can affect how the toes move. These factors together increase the risk of developing painful toe deformities.

Early Warning Signs

One of the first signs is a toe that starts to bend at the middle joint. The toe may still be flexible but feels stiff at times. You may notice redness or irritation from shoe pressure. Mild pain can appear during walking or standing.

Small corns or calluses may form on the top of the toe. Shoes may start to feel tight even if they used to fit well. The toe can rub against the inside of the shoe and cause soreness. Catching these signs early can help prevent further damage.

Pain Symptoms

Discomfort often begins as a dull ache in the affected toe. The pain can get worse when wearing tight or closed shoes. Walking or standing for long periods may increase soreness. The area can feel tender when touched.

Sharp pain may develop as the toe rubs against footwear. Corns and calluses can press into the skin and cause burning feelings. Swelling or redness may appear around the joint. Ongoing pain can make daily movement harder.

When to See a Doctor

You should seek medical help when pain does not improve with simple home care. If walking becomes hard or shoes no longer fit, it is time to get checked. Redness, swelling, or open sores should not be ignored. A doctor can examine the toe and suggest the right treatment.

If the toe becomes stiff and cannot move, professional care is needed. Numbness or signs of infection also mean you should not wait. Early treatment can help you avoid more serious problems. In some cases, options like hammer toe surgery may be discussed to restore comfort and function.

Your Partner in Foot Health

Taking the right steps can help prevent or treat hammertoe deformities effectively. By functioning as your dedicated partner in foot health, we are committed to providing tailored solutions that meet your personal needs. 

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