What Is Hammer Toe? Causes & Treatment | Foot & Ankle Centers

If you've noticed your toes bending downward or feel discomfort when walking, you may be dealing with hammer toe. This common foot condition can cause pain and difficulty with walking, but early treatment can help you get back to a pain-free life. In this blog, we’ll explore the causes of hammer toe, its symptoms, and treatment options, emphasizing the importance of addressing the condition early.

What Is Hammer Toe?

Hammer toe occurs when one or more of your toes bend abnormally at the middle joint, causing them to curl downward. This condition most commonly affects the second, third, or fourth toe. It can make wearing shoes uncomfortable and lead to pain, corns, or calluses. Without treatment, hammer toe may become more rigid, causing long-term discomfort and mobility issues.

What Causes Hammer Toe?

Most common contributors:

• Tight or Ill-Fitting Shoes: Shoes that are too tight or have high heels can force your toes into unnatural positions, leading to muscle imbalances and hammer toe.

• Muscle Imbalances: Conditions like flat feet or high arches can cause your toe muscles to function improperly, increasing the risk of hammer toe.

• Previous Injuries: Injuries to the toes or foot can affect how the toes bend and lead to the development of hammer toe.

• Genetics: A family history of hammer toe may increase your risk of developing the condition.

• Arthritis: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis can cause joint deformities, including hammer toe.

Symptoms of Hammer Toe

Hammer toe symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe pain. Common signs include:

• Visible Bend: The most noticeable symptom is a toe that appears bent like a hammer.

• Pain and Discomfort: The abnormal bend can cause pain, particularly when wearing shoes or walking for extended periods.

• Corns or Calluses: Friction between the bent toe and shoes can lead to corns or calluses on the toe or the top of the shoe.

• Difficulty Walking: In severe cases, the condition may affect your gait and lead to a limp.

• Swelling or Redness: The affected toe joint may swell or appear red due to irritation.

How Hammer Toe Is Diagnosed

A foot exam, review of your symptoms and medical history, and possibly an X-ray will help determine the severity and rule out other issues. At Foot & Ankle Centers, we provide in-house imaging services at all three locations, allowing for quick and convenient X-rays.

Treatment for Hammer Toe

Treatment for hammer toe depends on the severity of the condition. Early treatment can help relieve pain and prevent further deformity.

Treatment options at Foot & Ankle Centers may include:

• Footwear Modifications: Wearing shoes with a wide toe box and soft soles can reduce pressure on the toes and improve comfort. Avoid high heels and narrow shoes that exacerbate the condition.

• Padding and Cushioning: Pads or cushions inside shoes can protect the affected toe from friction and prevent corns or calluses.

• Stretching and Exercises: Gentle toe stretches and exercises can improve flexibility and help prevent the condition from worsening. A podiatrist can recommend exercises to strengthen the muscles in your feet.

• Orthotics: Custom orthotic insoles can help correct toe misalignment, reduce pressure, and provide support, preventing further bending.

• Surgery: If hammer toe is severe or conservative treatments fail, surgery may be necessary. The procedure may involve realigning the toe or removing excess bone to restore proper function.

Don’t Wait to Get Help

Hammer toe is a manageable condition that benefits from early intervention. With timely treatment, you can prevent further pain and deformity, ensuring better mobility.

Dr. Tavakoli, Dr. Knapp, and Dr. Treleven at Foot & Ankle Centers are experts in diagnosing and treating hammer toe. They’ll create a personalized treatment plan based on your specific condition to help restore proper toe function and relieve pain. For your convenience we offer care in Frisco, Little Elm, and McKinney.