Curling toes, usually called hammertoes, are common. Here at Mountain West Foot & Ankle Institute, we see them on a regular basis. But this is your feet, so we want to help you understand what this condition is and how it can be treated. You do have options.
What Is A Hammertoe?
Hammer toes are little toes that buckle or curl under. The curling can develop in any toe joint and may cause pain. The most commonly affected joints are:
- Mallet Toe - joint at end of toe (distal interphalangeal joint)
- Hammer Toe - joint in middle of toe (proximal interphalangeal joint)
- Hammer Toe - joint at ball of foot (metatarsal-phalangeal joint)
- Claw Toe - a combination of all joints
Over time, these toes may hurt, may produce corns or calluses on the toes or may limit ambulation and shoe gear.
