A hammertoe is a structural deformity in which the middle toe joint bends abnormally, causing the toe to contract and become elevated. Most commonly affecting the second, third, or fourth toes, it can lead to pain, pressure lesions, and progressive stiffness. When the deformity becomes fixed, surgical correction may be necessary.

Muscle Imbalance: An imbalance between the muscles, tendons, and ligaments that stabilize the toes can lead to abnormal bending.
Wearing Tight or Improper Footwear: Shoes that are too tight, narrow, or high-heeled can crowd the toes, forcing them into a bent position over time.
Trauma to the Toe: Stubbing, jamming, or fracturing a toe can damage its structure and increase the risk of deformity.
Arthritis: Inflammatory joint conditions can lead to structural changes and deformities in the toes.
Heredity: Inherited foot shapes or biomechanical tendencies can predispose a person to hammertoe.
High Arches (Pes Cavus): Increased pressure on the ball of the foot and toes from high arches may contribute to toe deformities.
Flat Feet (Pes Planus): Overpronation and instability associated with flat feet can alter toe mechanics.
Long Second Toe: When the second toe is longer than the big toe, it is more likely to be pushed into a hammertoe position by shoes.
Neuromuscular Disorders: Conditions such as Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, cerebral palsy, or stroke can impair muscle control in the foot.
Diabetes: Nerve damage and changes in foot structure related to diabetes can increase the risk of hammertoe.
Advancing Age: Tendons and ligaments lose flexibility over time, making toe deformities more likely.
Female Gender: Women are more frequently affected, partly due to footwear choices.

Corns or calluses: Often develop on the top of the toe’s middle joint or at the tip of the toe due to pressure and friction from footwear.
Toe pain: Discomfort may be felt in the affected toe, especially when walking or wearing shoes.
Difficulty finding comfortable footwear: Shoes may feel tight or irritating due to the abnormal toe position, leading to discomfort during daily activities.

Footwear Modifications: Wearing shoes with a soft, spacious toe box and low heels helps reduce pressure and accommodate the natural alignment of the toes.
Orthotic Devices: Custom orthotics or over-the-counter inserts can support proper foot alignment and relieve stress on the affected toe joints.
Padding and Taping: Using straps, cushions, or non-medicated corn pads can help reduce friction, pressure, and discomfort.
Physical Therapy and Toe Exercises: Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises can improve toe flexibility and may slow progression in flexible hammertoes.
Anti-inflammatory Medications: Oral NSAIDs can help reduce joint pain and inflammation. In some cases, steroid injections may provide temporary relief for localized swelling.
Surgical Intervention: In more severe or rigid cases, surgery may be recommended. Common procedures include tendon lengthening, tendon transfer, or joint resection to correct the deformity.

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