How is hammer toe treated?

Hammer toe is a bend in a smaller toe that can rub against footwear or press into the ground. During an examination, a clinician checks whether the toe can be gently straightened, where the skin is irritated and whether the problem is linked to muscle imbalance, footwear or another foot condition. A flexible toe may respond to support and exercise; a rigid toe usually needs a more individualised plan.

Choose shoes with a wide, deep toe box and avoid footwear that pushes the toes together. A protective pad can reduce rubbing, but it should not create extra pressure. Foot Pain and Toe Pain are useful symptom overviews when discomfort extends beyond the affected toe.

A podiatry or orthopaedic assessment may lead to taping, a toe sleeve, stretching for a flexible deformity or strengthening that improves foot control. Custom Orthotics can alter pressure distribution and support the way the foot loads. Keep skin clean and inspect it regularly if rubbing has caused a corn or sore area. If pain continues, the toe becomes fixed, or footwear remains difficult, Hammer Toe Surgery may be discussed. The procedure depends on the joint involved and whether motion can be preserved.

Arrange an appointment for increasing pain, a toe that is changing shape, recurrent corns, or difficulty finding safe footwear. Seek prompt advice for an open sore, spreading redness, drainage, marked swelling, fever, or a toe that becomes pale, blue, cold or numb. People with diabetes or reduced circulation should have foot wounds assessed early rather than treating them only with pads.

Ask whether your toe is flexible or fixed, what footwear and support are suitable, how to protect irritated skin, whether an orthotic could help, and what recovery would involve if surgery is recommended.