Hammer toe

A deformity of the second, third, or fourth toes.
Dorsiflexion at the midtarsalphalangeal joint (MPJ), plantarflexion at the proximal interphalangeal joint (PIPJ), and either normal position or dorsiflexion at the distal interphalangeal joint (DIPJ).

Painfull callus and/or corns may develop on the top of the middle joint of the toe and around the tip of the toe, distal to the nail from pressure of the shoes rubbing against the flexed portion of the toe on weight-bearing.
Difficulty finding comfortable shoes is common.

 Left untreated, hammertoes can become inflexible and require surgery.

 Treatment

 Debride / removal of corns and callus.
 Footwear advice
 Functional orthoses.
 Surgery (failed non-operative treatment).

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Grayston Shopping Centre, Grayston Drive, Sandton, Johannesburg. 2196‎