What is Hammertoe?

Hammertoe is a bending (contracture) of the first joint in your toe, called the proximal interphalangeal joint. The contracture makes your toe look like an upside-down V. A hammertoe can affect any toe but is most common in the second through fifth toes.

There are two types of hammertoe:

• Flexible Hammertoe: A flexible hammertoe is less severe and easier to treat than the rigid type. When you have a flexible hammertoe, the joint is still moveable.
• Rigid Hammertoe: Rigid hammertoes are more serious and may require surgical treatment. This type can develop in people who have severe arthritis or those who wait too long to seek treatment for a flexible hammertoe.

What are the Symptoms of Hammertoe?

The most noticeable symptom of a hammertoe is an abnormal bend in the toe. Other hammertoe signs and symptoms include:

• Pain in the affected toe when wearing shoes
• Inflammation, redness, or swelling at the joint
• Restricted or painful motion
• Pain at the ball of the foot below the affected toe

Friction from wearing shoes may also lead to corns or calluses between your toes or on the ball of your foot.