Hammertoe is characterized by one or more of the toes having a bend in the middle joint. This occurs because of the weakening of the muscle due to poorly fitted shoes or a genetically inherited trait.
If you have a hammertoe, your podiatrist may recommend that you wear shoes that fit you better along with inserts to place inside them. Additionally, he or she may suggest special exercises for you to perform to stretch your toes. One helpful exercise is to pick up marbles with your feet or crumple a towel with your toes.
Prior to meeting with your podiatrist, it will be helpful to make a list of all the symptoms you are experiencing.