A foot condition in which the toe has a bend that is not usual in the middle joint.
A hammertoe is usually caused by wearing shoes with high heels or narrow toe boxes. Other causes are foot injury and certain illnesses, such as arthritis and diabetes. Hammertoe usually occurs in the second, third or fourth toes.
The main symptom of hammertoe is a bend that is not usual in the joints of one or more toes. The affected toe may be painful or hard to move and may develop corns or calluses.
Treatment can include roomier shoes and shoe inserts or pads. Surgery might be needed.