What is Hammertoe?
Hammertoe is a foot deformity that causes one or more toes to bend abnormally at the middle joint, creating a curled or hammer-like appearance. This condition develops when there is an imbalance in the tendons and muscles that control toe movement. Over time, hammertoe can become painful and make wearing shoes uncomfortable.
Key Takeaways
- Hammertoe causes the toe to bend abnormally at the joint
- The condition develops from tendon and muscle imbalance
- Hammertoes may become painful over time
- Tight shoes and foot structure can contribute to the condition
- Early treatment may help prevent worsening deformity
What Causes Hammertoe?
Hammertoe occurs when the muscles and tendons controlling the toe become unbalanced. This imbalance causes the toe joint to contract and bend upward.
Several factors may contribute to hammertoe, including:
- Tight or narrow shoes
- High heels
- Foot structure or genetics
- Arthritis
- Muscle or nerve conditions
- Bunions or other foot deformities
Over time, the toe may become more rigid and difficult to straighten.
Common Symptoms of Hammertoe
Symptoms can range from mild irritation to significant discomfort.
Common symptoms include:
- A bent or curled toe
- Pain when wearing shoes
- Corns or calluses on the top of the toe
- Redness or irritation
- Difficulty walking comfortably
- Stiffness in the toe joint
Some patients notice a painful bump where the toe rubs against footwear.
How Is Hammertoe Treated?
Treatment depends on the severity and flexibility of the toe deformity.
Conservative Treatments
Early or flexible hammertoes may improve with:
- Wider shoes with extra toe room
- Padding or protective cushions
- Orthotics
- Stretching exercises
- Anti-inflammatory medications
Surgical Treatment
If the hammertoe becomes rigid or painful despite conservative care, surgery may be recommended to straighten the toe and relieve discomfort.
When Should You See a Foot Specialist?
You should consider seeing a podiatrist if:
- Toe pain affects daily activities
- Shoes become uncomfortable
- Corns or calluses continue to worsen
- The toe becomes stiff or rigid
- Conservative treatment is not helping
Early treatment may help prevent progression of the deformity.
About Dr. Eman Elmi
Dr. Eman Elmi is a podiatrist and foot and ankle specialist affiliated with BASS Medical Group and Diablo Foot & Ankle. Dr. Elmi treats a wide range of foot and ankle conditions, including hammertoes, bunions, and minimally invasive foot procedures.
Video Transcript
A hammertoe is a contracture that occurs in one or two of the joints in the toe of the foot.
It forms when there is an imbalance in the mechanical pull of the tendons pulling up and down on the toe, causing a bump to form that can be painful.
I’m Dr. Eman Elmi, and thank you for watching.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can hammertoes go away on their own?
No. Hammertoes typically do not resolve without treatment and may gradually worsen over time.
What shoes are best for hammertoes?
Shoes with a wide toe box and low heels can help reduce pressure on the toes.
Is hammertoe surgery painful?
Most patients experience manageable discomfort during recovery, and surgery is designed to relieve long-term pain and improve toe alignment.
Can hammertoes become permanent?
Yes. Flexible hammertoes can eventually become rigid if not treated early.
Medical Disclaimer: Content provided by BASS Medical Group is intended for general informational purposes only and does not establish a physician-patient relationship. This information should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
