Hammer Toe: Effective Treatment Options

Hammer toe is a toe deformity that can become a nuisance over time. You may not be able to wear the shoes you want, or movement can start to hurt. Understanding your options allows you to seek relief at an early stage before complications develop.

What Is Hammer Toe?

Hammer toe is a condition in which your toe bends in the middle, producing a hammer-like appearance. The middle joint bends downward and forces the toe to curl. This deformity typically occurs on the second, third, or fourth toe. In most cases, it develops over time and does not happen suddenly.

Hammer toe results when the toe becomes stuck in a bent position because of an imbalance in the muscles that move it. With continued pressure, the deformity can become rigid and no longer flexible.

Causes and Risk Factors

Hammer toe often develops in people who wear tight or narrow shoes. Pointed or high-heeled shoes may also increase the risk of hammer toe. Structural foot conditions such as flat feet, high arches, bunions, and prior foot injuries can also cause or increase the risk of hammer toe. Inherited foot shape or weakness in the muscles may also be a factor, as well as medical conditions like arthritis or diabetes.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Symptoms may begin as mild pain at the joint of the affected toe but will gradually increase over time. As friction on the toe becomes more of an issue, corns or calluses may develop on the top or tip of the toe. Patients with severe, rigid hammer toe may be unable to straighten the toe.

Diagnosis is often made during a physical exam. Your foot and ankle specialist will look at the alignment of your toes and examine the joints for flexibility. The skin on top of your toes and under your foot may also be checked for areas of irritation and pressure. In some cases, diagnostic images may be recommended to rule out other issues or look for changes in the joint.

Hammer toe can often be treated without surgery. The goals of non-surgical treatment are to take pressure off the toe, improve alignment, and relieve symptoms. Simple changes in footwear to shoes with a wide toe box and soft upper material may improve the issue. Orthotics or supportive insoles may also help spread weight-bearing more evenly throughout the foot.

Exercises and Therapy

Physical therapy is also important for treating and managing hammer toe. Therapy can often improve flexibility and help slow progression. These exercises help strengthen and balance the muscles that control toe movement.

Stretching and strengthening exercises can help relax and lengthen contracted muscles and tendons around the affected toe. Exercise should be performed regularly and as instructed to be effective.

If the toe is rigid, your provider may recommend surgery. The decision to operate is typically based on the level of pain and impact on walking and mobility. Surgery may also be considered if the toe is rigid or unresponsive to non-surgical treatment.

Non-surgical treatment is most effective when started early before the condition becomes rigid. If the toe remains bent without relief from other treatments, surgery may be needed. Surgery will depend on your foot shape and severity of the deformity.

Recovery

The recovery process for hammer toe surgery typically involves rest and protecting the foot while it heals. Swelling is common, and support from a shoe or boot may be recommended. Physical therapy may also be advised to improve strength and flexibility. Recovery time will vary, but most people notice a decrease in pain and increased toe alignment as the healing process progresses.

The key to preventing future foot problems is to continue taking care of your feet. This means wearing shoes that fit properly and avoiding high heels. Stretches and exercises may also help maintain flexibility in your toes. Regular check-ups will allow your provider to look for early signs of issues.

Patients with diabetes, poor circulation, or nerve conditions may be at higher risk for hammer toe. High blood sugar can affect blood flow and increase pressure on the toes. Pain may also not be felt if nerve function is reduced, increasing the risk of irritation and injury. Regular professional foot care is important to monitor for issues and maintain good foot health.

At Wasatch Foot & Ankle Institute, our team can help with everything from early diagnosis to customized treatment options. By working with a foot and ankle specialist, you can relieve pain and restore your toe to its natural shape. This can help you feel more comfortable and mobile in everyday life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes hammer toe to get worse over time?

Continued pressure from shoes and an untreated muscle imbalance can lead to rigidity and increased pain.

Can hammer toe be treated without surgery?

Yes. Many patients find relief with footwear changes, orthotics, exercises, and padding when treated early.

Is hammer toe painful?

Hammer toe pain can vary by severity. In mild cases, it may cause slight discomfort. Pain may be significant in advanced cases.

How long does recovery take after hammer toe surgery?

Recovery typically takes a few weeks, with steady improvement as swelling subsides and function returns.

When should I see a foot and ankle specialist?

If you experience pain that does not resolve, toe shape gets worse, or it becomes difficult to walk, seek treatment.