The term hammertoe, although a somewhat ominous sounding term, is essentially another name for a toe that is bent. It is a toe that is bent due to a bend in the middle joint.
Hammertoes can be caused by genetics and arthritis, however the majority of the cases of hammertoes are caused by poor fitting shoes (too short) or heels that are too high. The physics of these types of poor fitting shoes are simple; these conditions force or crowd your toes against the end of the shoe that force the toes into an unnatural position or bend. Although hammertoe can affect any of the toes, it is most common for it to affect the lesser toes.
So, you can see the number one preventative measure you can take in the prevention of hammertoe is to wear shoes that fit your foot properly.
When it comes to dealing with a hammertoe condition, pain is generally the determining factor. In fact, if you have a bent toe that does not bother you or is not causing you any pain, then you should not worry about it. Other than the visual aspect of the toe, there would be no reason to pursue a surgical remedy.
If the pain is significant or sever enough and limits your mobility and wearing properly fitting shoes does not provide any relief, you may want to weigh other possible treatments or even surgical options with your doctor.
Before opting for surgery, your doctor will probably check the degree of flexibility that remains in your affected toe. If there is still ample flexibility, your doctor may want you to wear a specific type of shoe or an insert (orthotics) that can reposition the toe and provide relief.
If your toe has become rigid and inflexible, surgery may be called for. The type of surgery and the level of invasiveness will depend upon how rigid the toe has become.
With some flexibility remaining in the toe, your doctor may straighten it by a small incision to release the tendon. With a more sever degree of inflexibility, your doctor may rework the bone, which will require the use of temporary pins while your toe goes through the healing process.
There are preventative measures that you can take such as:
Avoiding shoes with narrow toes and / or high heels.
Wearing shoes that have adjustment functionality or laces
Avoid shoes that do not breathe well (vinyl or plastics)
Trying on and buying shoes later in the day when your feet are actually larger
Actually measure both of your feet when shopping for shoes
Many times alleviating the source of the irritation for your toe (your shoes) will provide the necessary relief. Short of that, try orthotics (inserts). Just make sure that you have enough room in the shoe for the insert and that you do not add to the problem of not enough room by using inserts.
As always, if none of these self care measures relieve your pain and discomfort, consult with your doctor for any possible additional measures.