An early sign may be that you have a more difficult time wearing your shoes. The longer you have a hammertoe, the more rigid the deformity can become. Most people realize they have a problem once they develop painful calluses or blisters on the top of their feet. Other signs include painful calluses under the balls of the feet, cramping, weakness, and fatigue. Most people start treating themselves because they have a painful corn or calluse.
People try corn pad removers, cushioning pads, pedicures, etc.
The problem, however, is a structural deformity, and thus the above mentioned treatments are only temporary. Some individuals will even switch to larger shoes that may initially help but can lead to worsening the deformity. The most effective treatment is surgical correction. The surgical correction of a hammertoe is technically challenging, and requires a surgeon with excellent skills and experience. The procedure can be done in the office or in an operating room, using local anesthetic.