Which specialist treats hammer toe?

Hammer toe is a bend in a smaller toe that may cause rubbing, corns or pain. During an assessment, the clinician checks whether the toe can be straightened by hand, examines shoe pressure and looks at the rest of the foot. This helps distinguish a flexible deformity from one that has become fixed.

Book a foot assessment if the toe rubs in shoes, develops a sore area or changes your walking. Wider footwear, protective padding, exercises and [Custom Orthotics](/treatments/non-surgical-orthopedics/custom-orthotics/) may reduce pressure. If the deformity is fixed or symptoms persist, the specialist may discuss [Hammer Toe Surgery](/treatments/reconstructive-orthopedic-surgery/hammer-toe-surgery/).

Seek prompt care for an open sore, spreading redness, drainage, fever or rapidly increasing swelling. Arrange an appointment for ongoing [Toe Pain](/symptoms/toe-pain/) or [Foot Pain](/symptoms/foot-pain/) that interferes with shoes or walking. People with diabetes or reduced foot sensation should have skin breaks assessed without delay.

Ask whether your toe is flexible, what is causing the pressure, and which shoe shape or padding is suitable. Discuss the expected trial of non-surgical care, signs that a procedure may be useful, and how walking would be supported during recovery.