Hammer toe
About this category
Hammertoe means that a toe bends upward at the joint while the tip of the toe points downward. The raised joint easily rubs against the shoe, which can cause tenderness, pressure and chafing - and often calluses where the toe makes contact.
Here you will find pressure-relieving products such as toe protectors, toe separators and orthopedic insoles that protect the toe and make walking more comfortable in everyday life.
Hammertoe at a glance
With hammertoe, one of the toes - usually the second - develops a bent position at the middle joint. The toe resembles a small hammer: the joint sticks up and the tip of the toe is pressed down against the ground.
The deformity usually develops gradually. At first, the toe can often be straightened, but over time it may become stiffer. Tight shoes and prolonged pressure on the forefoot usually make the symptoms more noticeable.
Common symptoms
How noticeable it is depends on how pronounced the deformity is. Common symptoms include:
- Pressure and chafing from the shoe on top of the bent joint
- Calluses or corns on the toe or toe tip
- Tenderness when walking and in tight shoes
- Difficulty finding shoes that fit comfortably
- Stiffness in the affected toe
Why hammertoe develops
Several factors often work together. Some of the most common include:
- Tight, pointed or high-heeled shoes
- Heredity and the shape of the foot
- An imbalance between the muscles and tendons in the foot
- A crooked big toe (hallux valgus) that presses against the adjacent toe
- Prolonged pressure on the forefoot
Hammertoe is more common in women and becomes more common with age.
How to reduce pressure
The focus is usually on giving the toes more room and protecting the points that rub against the shoe. For example, you can:
- Choose shoes with a wide and high toe box
- Protect the raised joint with a soft toe protector
- Use toe separators to keep the toes in place
- Try a forefoot support for hammertoe
Many people experience greater comfort when the bent toe has a protective layer between it and the shoe.
Products commonly used
For hammertoe, many people choose to combine protection, support and comfortable shoes. Common choices include:
- Soft silicone toe protectors that reduce chafing
- Toe separators and toe splints that keep the toes in position
- Insoles and shoe insoles with forefoot support
- Shoes with extra room for the toes
Does hammertoe go away on its own?
The deformity usually does not go away on its own. However, the right shoes and pressure relief can often make everyday life more comfortable.
For many people, self-care is sufficient for mild symptoms. If the toe becomes stiff and the symptoms are severe, surgery may be considered.
How quickly will you notice a difference?
It depends on how early you reduce the pressure and how stiff the toe has become. Many people notice improved comfort fairly quickly when chafing decreases, while more advanced symptoms require more patience.
When is it time to take action?
If you notice that a toe is beginning to bend, or you experience pain and chafing when walking, it is a good idea to act early. The sooner the pressure is reduced, the better the conditions for comfortable steps.
In the event of persistent pain, sores or if the toe becomes completely stiff - contact a healthcare provider for an assessment.
Questions and answers about hammertoe
What is hammertoe?
A deformity in which a toe bends upward at the middle joint and the tip of the toe points downward.
What does hammertoe feel like?
Usually pressure, chafing and tenderness on top of the bent joint, especially in tight shoes.
What do people usually start with?
Roomier shoes and a soft toe protector are common first steps.
Can you exercise with hammertoe?
Yes, but choose shoes with plenty of room for the toes and avoid anything that makes the symptoms worse.
Do you have to have surgery?
No, most people manage with self-care. Surgery is only considered when symptoms are more severe.