hammer toe

A hammer toe is a common foot condition that occurs when one of the toes becomes bent or curled downward at the middle joint, resembling the shape of a hammer. This can cause the toe to rub against the inside of the shoe, leading to pain, irritation, and difficulty walking.

The most common cause of hammer toes is wearing poorly fitting shoes, such as high heels or shoes with a narrow toe box. These types of shoes can put excessive pressure on the toes, forcing them to bend downward and become stuck in that position. Hammer toes can also be inherited, and are more common in people with certain conditions, such as flat feet or rheumatoid arthritis.

Symptoms of a hammer toe may include a bent or curled toe, pain and swelling in the affected area, and redness or irritation of the skin. The toe may also rub against the inside of the shoe, causing discomfort and difficulty walking. In some cases, there may be difficulty moving the toe or difficulty fitting into shoes.

If you have symptoms of a hammer toe, contact Irvine Foot & Ankle and make your appointment for a thorough evaluation and proper treatment by Dr. Michael Bastani.