Hammertoes

A hammertoe is a deformity of the toe joint that causes the toe to bend out of its normal straight position. Instead of resting flat, the toe develops an abnormal curve at the middle joint. 

Hammertoes are seen more often in women than in men.

In this condition, the end of the toe angles downward while the middle portion lifts upward. Hammertoes most often affect the smaller toes, particularly at the second joint. The big toe is not typically involved.

Early on, the toe may only appear slightly bent and may not interfere with walking. However, without treatment, the joint can gradually lose its normal movement. As the deformity progresses, the toe may remain permanently curled. 

In more advanced stages, the shape can resemble an inverted “V.” The term “hammertoe” comes from this bent, hammer-like appearance.

Hammertoes are commonly classified based on how much movement remains in the joint.

What Is a Flexible Hammertoe?

A flexible hammertoe means the toe is bent but still has joint motion. The toe can be straightened manually, especially in earlier stages. Because the joint has not yet stiffened, correction options are typically more manageable at this point.

What Is a Rigid (Fixed) Hammertoe?

A rigid hammertoe occurs when the joint becomes stiff and no longer moves freely. The toe cannot be straightened by hand. At this stage, non-surgical correction becomes more limited, and surgical correction is more often considered.

Here are some of the main causes of hammertoes:

Poorly Fitting Shoes

• Shoes that are too narrow or have a small toe box can force the toes into unnatural positions.
• Shoes without enough arch support can also increase pressure on the toes.
• High heels place added pressure on the front of the foot.
• Children who continue wearing shoes they have outgrown may develop hammertoes due to ongoing crowding.

High Arch Feet or Flat Feet

• The natural shape of the foot can increase the likelihood of developing a toe deformity.
• People with high arches or flat feet may be more prone to hammertoes.

Long Toes

• Toes that are naturally longer than usual may not fit comfortably in standard shoe widths or sizes.
• This lack of space can place extra pressure on the toes and contribute to curled toes.

Certain Health Conditions

• Any condition that affects the feet and toes can contribute to hammertoes.
• People with rheumatoid arthritis or diabetes may have an increased risk.

Bunions

• Bunions can push the toes out of alignment.
• The added pressure can contribute to the development of hammertoes.

Some of the common signs and symptoms of hammertoes are:

• Toe pain on the top of the bent joint or at the ball of the foot.
• Corns and calluses on the PIP joint or toe tip.
• Redness, swelling, and skin irritation over pressure points.
• Stiffness or inability to straighten the toe signals progression.
• Trouble fitting shoes due to the raised joint and rubbing.
• Gait changes or balance issues in advanced cases.

What Are the Treatments of Hammertoe?

The first goal of hammertoe treatment is to relieve pressure on the affected toe and allow it space to move closer to its natural position.

In many cases, conservative care is effective, especially in the earlier stages. Treatment is based on symptoms, severity, and how much the curled toes are affecting daily activity.

Footwear changes: Wear shoes with wide, deep toe boxes to reduce pressure on curled toes. Shoe-stretching devices may help widen existing footwear.

Pads and taping: OTC toe pads cushion pressure areas. Medical taping may help hold the toe in a corrected position.

Orthotic devices: Shoe inserts support the foot and help maintain proper toe alignment. Options include OTC, custom orthotics, or toe spacers.

Pain relievers: NSAIDs reduce pain and swelling. Do not use for more than 10 consecutive days without medical guidance.

Toe exercises: Stretches may help maintain alignment and slow progression of the toe deformity.

Surgery: Considered when conservative hammertoe treatment does not relieve symptoms or walking becomes extremely painful. Surgical hammertoe correction depends on severity.

If hammertoe pain is affecting your comfort or mobility, don’t wait for it to get worse. Our team at Central Florida Foot and Ankle Center, LLC provides expert evaluation and personalized care. 

Call our Winter Haven, Lakeland, or Davenport clinic today to secure a same-day appointment and take the first step toward relief.