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							| Hammer toes are caused by a biomechanical imbalance where the muscle structures of the toes are partially or completely dislocated. This causes the toes to become bent and crooked, and the joints of the toes to protrude. |  |  
 This condition can be hereditary or caused by inappropriate, ill-fitting shoes. Caution must be taken with hammertoes as they can lead to the development of ulcers and infections, which can be very serious for people with diabetics especially.
 
 Hammertoes can be very painful, especially if irritated by a tight fitting shoe and can often lead to corns, calluses and sufferers can sometimes experience cramps in the toes and feet.
 
 
 Causes
 
 Ill-fitting shoes
Rheumatoid arthritis , which can result in bunions that can further lead to hammer toes  
Pronation (flat feet)  
Hereditary causes
 
 Prevention & Treatment
 
 Visit a Podiatrist/Chiropodist 
Moisturise the feet to keep the skin soft and supple 
Ensure that socks/tights provide adequate ventilation for the foot 
Purchase a pair of supportive shoes with a low heel and wide toe 
Specially designed foot pads can be used to relieve pressure 
High quality silicone toe shields/caps and hammer toe splints will prevent further irritation
 
 
 
 
 
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 Foot Problems
 Blisters
 Plantar Warts
 Hammertoes
 Ingrown Toenails
 Bunions
 Corns & Calluses
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