If you've ever wondered why your toes might be bending in an unusual way or causing you pain, you might be dealing with a hammertoe. Don't worry – you're not alone in this, this structural abnormality often affects both men and women, usually resulting in severe discomfort, difficulty walking, and trouble finding footwear that fits you properly. So, let's dive right in and uncover the top five important facts about hammertoes, including how you can prevent and treat them.

1. Hammertoes can run in the family

Imagine this – your toes suddenly take on a mind of their own, bending and contorting in a way that seems like a real-life puzzle. Well, that's hammertoe for you. And guess what? It's not always about those fancy but painful high heels. While stilettos and pointy shoes can definitely be the culprits, hammertoes can also be a family affair. Even if you've never squeezed your feet into tight shoes, you might still find yourself facing the challenge of hammertoes, especially if flat feet run in your family. Your poor toes try their best to hold up your feet, compensating for the lack of arches, which isn't exactly their natural job description. This constant tug-of-war within your feet can lead to muscles and tendons acting out, ultimately giving rise to those stubborn hammertoes. And hey, it's not just genetics – specific neuromuscular conditions can also pave the way for these toe troubles.

2. Hammertoes can be a real pain

Hammertoes aren't just about the peculiar bend. They can bring a whole load of discomfort and downright pain to the party. Imagine slipping into your favorite shoes only to feel like your toes are being squished and squashed in all the wrong ways. That's because the skin above your toes and under the ball of your foot starts throwing tantrums – corns, calluses, and blisters become unwelcome guests. All this chaos is thanks to your foot's shape-changing, all thanks to that one toe causing a ruckus. And let's not forget about the toe contracture – it's like your toe's way of saying, "I'm not moving, and you're going to feel it." But don't worry, there are flexible and hard hammertoes, depending on the pain level. If you're unsure, it's always wise to consult a podiatrist – they're the foot experts, after all.

3. Comfortable shoes are your new BFFs

Now, before you start thinking that the only solution involves scalpels and surgery rooms, hold up. There's a simpler, non-invasive path to explore first. Say hello to your new best friends – comfortable shoes. Yeah, I know, it might sound too good to be true, but trust me, it's a game-changer. If those high heels and pointy shoes are your go-to, it might be time to give them a break. Your toes deserve to spread out and wiggle without feeling like they're trapped in a toe jail. Keep those heels below the two-inch mark, and make sure your toes have room to breathe, even in your sporty sneakers. Sometimes, shoes can be sneaky – they look roomy, but as soon as you start wiggling those toes, you realize they're tighter than you thought. So, remember, comfy shoes are like a warm hug for your feet.

4. Over-the-counter solutions 

Okay, so you're facing some serious foot issues – corns and calluses are making themselves at home on your feet. But fear not because the shelves of your local pharmacy might just have the solution. Over-the-counter (OTC) products can come to your rescue. They're like tiny armor for your skin, protecting it from the harsh realities of hammertoes. However, here's the catch – while these OTC pads can be great, stay away from the ones loaded with medicines. They might seem like the best solution, but they're not so friendly if you're dealing with diabetes. And if you really want to give your toes a helping hand, consider slipping custom orthotic devices into your shoes. These nifty gadgets work their magic by guiding your toes back to a happier, straighter state.

5. Surgery is the last resort

So you've tried the comfortable shoes and the over-the-counter pads, but your toes are still causing trouble. Don't worry, there is one last choice - surgery.  Surgery is frequently used as a last option when everything else has failed. If your hammertoe has reached its breaking point, producing excruciating agony or severely contorting your foot, surgery may be what you need.

The procedure could involve removing bone protrusions or adjusting tendons to bring your toe back in line. In some cases, fusing the joint might be the solution to finally put your hammertoe troubles to rest.