Hammer toes may be present from birth, but more often are acquired by wearing improperly fitting footwear. In children, the condition can occur from wearing shoes they have outgrown. The condition may occur in all but the first toe and is caused by ligaments and tendons that tighten, causing the toes joints to curl downward. The toes will appear bent or curled under. In time, pain will develop and it becomes difficult to maneuver the foot.

Your podiatrist can treat hammer toe. In mild cases, a shoe change may correct the problem or prevent the condition from worsening. Sometimes the toes are straightened for a period of time using a splint. In more severe cases; surgery may be required. If the joint is flexible, surgery may involve severing a tight tendon to allow the toe to relax. If the joint is rigid, a piece of bone may be removed, or in severe cases, the joint may be fused, so the toe is straightened. Most surgeries are out-patient and in many cases, you will be able to stand on the foot before leaving the office.