Think you have Hammertoe?

What is Hammertoe?

Hammertoe is when one or both joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes contract because the long muscles that originate from further up the leg overpower the smaller (intrinsic) muscles in the foot. This bending of the toe can cause pressure points on the toes when wearing shoes. It can cause issues such as pain or irritation of the affected toe when wearing shoes, a buildup of skin (on toe, between two toes, or on the ball of the foot), inflammation, redness, or a burning sensation.

Family history, arthritis, trauma, bunions, tight footwear, and neurological conditions such as stroke or peripheral neuropathy.

Make sure you buy soft shoes that have plenty of room around the toes- make sure the shoe is a thumbs width longer than your longest toe).
Find a shoe that has a deep toe box that accommodates your toes.
Sandals may help if they they don't pinch or rub any area of your foot.
Sandals may help, as long as they do not pinch or rub other areas of the foot.

Podiatrists can prescribe pads designed to shield corns and calluses from irritation.
Podiatrists may advise splints or small straps to realign the bent toe.
Orthotic devices can be prescribed by a podiatrist to offload or help control the muscle/tendon imbalance.
If the hammertoe has become rigid and painful or there is an open wound the podiatrist may advise surgery.

This deformity of the toes is progressive, getting worse over time. Therefore it can only be corrected with a surgical procedure. Wearing appropriate footwear and attending for treatment can help keep you feeling comfortable.
Treatment for this condition would be treated with a bit of padding normally or an orthotic, there is a limited amount of things we can do with this condition conservatively.
Different surgical procedures can be done, therefore if this option is chosen the recovery time will vary.