Hammer Toe

Hammer toe is a common deformity of the toe that is characterised by a bending of the middle joint of the toe, resembling a claw. Normally, the toes lie flat, however with hammer toe, the base of the toe bends upwards, with the end of the toe pointing downwards.

The second toe is most commonly affected although it can occur on the third and fourth toes also. It is the result of

Causes of hammer toe:

Genetics play a part in the development of hammer toe and some people are more susceptible than others, a muscle imbalance may also play a role in the development of hammer toe. Exacerbating factors include;

• Flat feet.

• Injury to the toe.

• Poorly fitting shoes that are too short or narrow at the front.

• High heeled shoes.

• Bunions may lead to the formation of a hammer toe due to the pressure the big toe pressing on it.

Hammer toe symptoms:

• The base of the toe points upwards to the first joint, from there it points downwards, resembling a claw. In the early stages of the condition, the toe is still flexible. However, if left untreated, the tendons may contract & become tight, fixing the toe permanently in the hammer toe position.

• Pain, especially when walking and/or wearing shoes.

• Corns & calluses may develop as a result of the toe rubbing against the inside of footwear.

Hammer toe treatment:

If caught in the early stages, while the toe is still flexible, treatment may include;

• Footwear: Wearing soft, comfortable and roomy shoes. There should be a half inch space between the end of the longest toe (note, in some individuals, the second toe is the longest) & the end of the shoe.

• Taping and splinting may be used to hold the affected toe straight and alleviate pain & discomfort.

• Inserts or pads in the shoes to help reposition the toe.

• Treating corns if present.

• Exercise, your doctor may recommend some exercises to do at home to help strengthen

• Over the counter pain killers to relieve pain.

• Surgery. If the toe becomes fixed, surgery may be necessary to straighten the joint.

Also see:

Athlete's Foot, Black Toenail, Bunions, Chilblains, Corns, Cracked Heels, Foot Care, Hammer Toe, Ingrown Toenails, Onychomycosis, Plantar Warts, Smelly Feet

Please note:

The medical articles on this site have not been written by a doctor & should not be considered a replacement for a doctor visit. The articles are provided for informative purposes only.

Always seek immediate medical advice for any problems.

While great care has been made in the creation of these articles, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or omissions on these pages. If in any doubt whatsoever, seek professional medical advice.