Hammer Toe: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

In a normal foot, the tendons on the top and bottom of the toe work together to keep it straight. When this balance is disrupted, the toe begins to curl downward at the middle joint, forming the characteristic “hammer-like” appearance.

Hammer toe often develops gradually and may worsen without proper treatment. Women tend to experience hammer toe more frequently than men—largely due to tight or narrow footwear that crowds the toes.

Left untreated, hammer toe can lead to chronic pain, difficulty walking, corns, calluses, and in people with diabetes, an increased risk of serious complications.

Types of Hammer Toe

There are two main forms of hammer toe, each requiring a different treatment approach:

Flexible Hammer Toe

  • The toe can still move at the joint.

  • Considered the early stage of deformity.

  • Often treatable without surgery.

  • Can be corrected with proper footwear, stretching, and conservative care.

Rigid Hammer Toe

  • The toe becomes stiff and cannot move on its own.

  • Usually occurs when flexible hammer toe is left untreated.

  • Often requires surgical correction to realign the toe and restore function.

Common Causes of Hammer Toe

Hammer toe typically develops due to muscle and tendon imbalance, but several factors may contribute:

  • Improper footwear (tight, narrow, or high-heeled shoes)

  • Genetics or inherited foot structure

  • Foot trauma or previous injuries

  • Arthritis

  • Bunions, corns, or other foot conditions

  • Age-related changes in tendon strength

Understanding the underlying cause helps determine the most effective treatment.

Symptoms of Hammer Toe

Hammer toe can cause a wide range of uncomfortable symptoms, including:

  • A curled or bent toe appearance

  • Pain when wearing shoes

  • Corns or calluses on the top or tip of the toe

  • Swelling, redness, or irritation

  • Inability to straighten the toe

  • Difficulty walking or exercising

Symptoms often worsen over time, especially when wearing shoes that put pressure on the toes.

Hammer Toe Treatment Options

Treatment varies depending on whether the deformity is flexible or rigid. Our podiatrists create individualized treatment plans to relieve pain and improve function.

Conservative Treatments for Flexible Hammer Toe

  • Proper footwear with a roomy toe box

  • Custom orthotics to correct muscle imbalance

  • Toe padding or protective cushions

  • Stretching and strengthening exercises

  • Anti-inflammatory medications for pain and swelling

Early treatment can often prevent the condition from progressing.

Surgical Treatment for Rigid Hammer Toe

If the toe becomes too stiff or painful, surgery may be recommended. Surgical procedures may include:

  • Removing or reshaping a small piece of bone

  • Repositioning tendons

  • Straightening and stabilizing the toe

  • Correcting related deformities such as bunions

Most hammer toe surgeries are performed on an outpatient basis, with minimal downtime and excellent long-term results.

When to See a Hammer Toe Specialist

Schedule an evaluation if you notice:

  • Persistent or worsening toe pain

  • Difficulty fitting into shoes

  • Corns or calluses forming on the affected toe

  • A toe that is becoming increasingly stiff

  • Symptoms affecting your ability to walk comfortably

Early diagnosis improves treatment options and can help prevent the need for surgery.

Find Relief From Hammer Toe Today

Don’t let hammer toe limit your comfort or mobility. The experts at Ankle & Foot Specialists of Puget Sound provide advanced, personalized care to correct the deformity and relieve your pain.

Contact us today to schedule your consultation and learn which treatment options are best for your needs.

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