What happens if hammer toe is not treated?

Hammer toe involves a toe bending at one or more joints. Early on, it may still straighten, but ongoing muscle and tendon imbalance can make the position harder to correct. The bent joint may press against the top of a shoe, while the toe tip can bear extra pressure against the ground. This can cause thickened skin, corns, blisters, or an ulcer, especially when footwear is tight. Pain may alter your stride and contribute to foot discomfort. The condition can affect one or several toes, and progression is not identical for everyone.

Book an assessment if the toe is painful, rubbing, or interfering with walking. Treatment may include shoes with a wide and deep toe box, cushioning, stretching, exercises, or custom orthotics. A clinician can check whether the toe is flexible and look for skin damage. When a deformity is fixed or symptoms continue despite non-surgical care, hammer toe surgery may be discussed. Do not cut a corn or sore yourself if you have reduced sensation or poor circulation.

Seek prompt care for an open sore, spreading redness, warmth, drainage, fever, sudden swelling, or a toe that becomes blue, pale, or numb. Arrange urgent assessment after an injury if the toe is visibly deformed or you cannot bear weight safely. Early attention can reduce pressure and help prevent a small skin problem from becoming deeper.

Ask: Is my toe still flexible? What footwear and padding would help? Do I need treatment for a corn or skin break? Would an orthotic improve pressure distribution? What findings would make surgery reasonable?