What is the first treatment tried for hammer toe?

Hammer toe is a bend in a smaller toe that can create pressure over the joint or at the tip. Shoes with enough room in length, width and height reduce rubbing and crowding. Custom Orthotics may redistribute pressure and support the foot, while gentle movement and exercises may help maintain comfort when the toe remains flexible. Treatment depends on whether the deformity can still be straightened and what is causing the irritation.

Switch to comfortable footwear and check the skin regularly for redness, blisters or a developing hard area. Avoid forcing the toe straight, particularly if this causes sharp pain. A clinician can assess flexibility, footwear pressure and any underlying joint problem. If pain, corns or difficulty walking continue despite non-surgical care, Hammer Toe Surgery may be discussed; the procedure depends on the toe’s flexibility and alignment.

Book an assessment if the toe is progressively changing shape, rubs against shoes, or limits walking or balance. Seek prompt care for an open sore, spreading redness, drainage, fever, sudden severe pain, or a cold, pale or numb toe. People with diabetes or reduced sensation should arrange foot problems early because skin damage may worsen unnoticed.

Ask whether your toe is flexible, which shoe shape and support would reduce pressure, and how to protect irritated skin. Ask what signs would make surgery reasonable and what recovery would involve.