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Hammer Toe Definition & Overview

Definition

A hammer toe is a toe that tends to remain bent at the middle joint in a claw-like position. This is potentially very painful. There are two types of hammer toe.

A flexible hammer toe has the ability to be straightened manually.

A rigid hammer toe cannot be pulled straight and can be extremely painful. After time, the top of the toe may press up against the shoe, potentially causing corns or calluses (thickened skin), which are also painful.

The sooner a hammer toe is treated, the more favorable the outcome. If you suspect you have this condition, contact your doctor.

Hammertoe

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Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2024 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.

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  • Hammer Toe

    Encylopedia entry for Hammer Toe.

    Hammer Toe(Hammertoe) by

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