Severe Multiple Hammertoes

Single Hammertoe with Corn

A hammertoe is a condition in which the toe (most commonly the second—next to the big toe or the small toe) becomes bent or contracted into an inverted “V” shape and can’t straighten out during walking. This occurs at the first of the two joints in the toe. As a result of this, a corn develops on the top where it rubs against the shoe. This is a normal response to abnormal friction on the skin—much like the calluses that form on your hand when you put in a busy day gardening.

When a hammertoe deformity is present, a build-up of hard skin is a result of the skin being pinched between the underlying bony prominence and the overlying shoe pressure. In some cases, the body may form a fluid-filled sac, or bursa, beneath the corn that can become inflamed and painful. In other instances, the corn may break down or ulcerate, possibly leading to infection. Click here for more information about Hammertoe and Corn Treatment.