Guide To The Causes And Risk Factors Of Hammertoe

Toe Length

An individual who has a specific arrangement of toe length called Morton's toe is at a higher risk than others for developing a hammertoe. Morton's foot is a deformity that causes an individual's second toe to be longer than the length of their first toe. This deformity puts the second toe base joint in a position that sits further forward than the rest of the toe joints. This deformity can cause numerous mild issues with the feet like having difficulty finding shoes that fit properly. The joints are not appropriately aligned across the foot, causing an increase of pressure and tension in areas of the foot and toes that would not typically experience it. Sometimes the odd distribution of pressure on the toes from having a longer middle toe can result in a strength discrepancy of the muscles that move the toes. The difference in muscle strength disrupts the delicate balance that allows an individual to control and move their toes functionally. Not all individuals affected by Morton's toe will develop hammertoe, but the deformity increases the risk for it.