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Hammertoe

Closeup of barefeet woman with Medical condition called bunions or hammer toes feet prob
There are two types of Hammertoe:

  • Flexible Hammertoes:  The toe still moves at the joint.  It's best to catch the condition in this phase and begin conservative efforts to avoid the condition worsening.

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  • Rigid Hammertoes:  Many people wait until they can't move their toe before they seek treatment.  At the Rigid stage, the joint is pressed out of alignment and immobile.  

Other complications and symptoms: 

  • Pain in the effected toe, often worse when wearing shoes

  • Redness and inflammation, especially at the peak of the bent joint.

  • Corns and Calluses on top of the toe, between toes and on the ball of the foot.

  • Pain in the ball of the foot.

  • Increased risk of blisters or open wounds as a result of friction and pressure.

Causes:  

Hammertoes are a result of  an abnormal muscle and tendon balance, which puts pressure on the joints.  Causes of that muscle imbalance may include: 

  • Genetics: some foot types are more prone to develop Hammertoes.  Examples are people with long toes, flat feet or bunions.

  • Footwear:  High heels, shoes that are too narrow in the toe box and shoes that are too small may all contribute to the development of Hammertoes.

Non-Surgical Treatment

  • Footwear Changes: Flat or low heel shoes with a wide, deep toe box. 

  • Cushioned Insoles or Custom Orthotics

  • Padding, Splinting or Taping

Surgery

If your Hammertoe become rigid and painful, disrupting your daily life, your podiatrist may recommend surgery.  There are several surgical options your doctor may consider.

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