If your second toe is looking a little bent out of shape, there’s a good chance you have a mallet toe (if the joint near the tip is affected) or a hammertoe (if it’s the joint in the middle).
Although a previous injury or nerve damage can play a role, by far the most common explanation for this condition is spending too much time in tight footwear. If you’re repeatedly stuffing your toes into shoes that are too short or too narrow, they may be forced to curve unnaturally for an extended period of time. Eventually the toe muscles become unbalanced and too weak to straighten the toe again on their own.
When toes get bent, get yourself to Family Foot and Ankle Center. Early detection and treatment can help you avoid complications like pain, corns, and walking trouble, and keep you out of surgery, too. Visit Family Foot and Ankle Center today at one of our six Greater Cincinnati offices, or call (513) 728-4800 or (859) 282-1572.
