Hammertoe Deformities
What Are Hammertoes?
A hammertoe is a deformity in which one or more of the smaller toes become bent at the middle joint, causing the toe to resemble a hammer. Over time, the deformity may become rigid, making it difficult to straighten the toe.
Hammertoes most commonly affect the second, third, and fourth toes and can cause pain, corns, calluses, difficulty wearing shoes, and irritation from rubbing against footwear. Early treatment can help relieve symptoms and slow the progression of the deformity.
How Do Hammertoes Develop?
Hammertoes develop when there is an imbalance between the muscles and tendons that control the toe. As this imbalance progresses, the toe gradually bends into an abnormal position.
- Genetics and inherited foot structure
- Bunions, which place pressure on the second toe
- Flat feet or high arches
- Tight or narrow shoes
- Arthritis
- Previous foot injuries
- Muscle or nerve disorders
Conservative Treatment
- Wearing shoes with a wide, deep toe box to reduce pressure on the toes
- Padding or toe sleeves to protect corns and irritated areas
- Custom orthotics to improve foot mechanics and reduce abnormal pressure
- Stretching and strengthening exercises to improve toe flexibility in early deformities
- Routine trimming of corns and calluses to relieve pain
- NSAIDs such as ibuprofen or naproxen to reduce pain and inflammation when appropriate
- Activity modification if certain activities increase discomfort
Surgical Treatment
When hammertoes become painful, rigid, or interfere with walking despite conservative care, surgery may be recommended. The goal is to straighten the toe, relieve pain, and improve shoe comfort.
Arthroplasty
An arthroplasty involves removing a small portion of bone from the affected joint, allowing the toe to straighten while preserving some flexibility. This procedure is commonly recommended for flexible or moderately rigid hammertoes.
Arthrodesis (Joint Fusion)
For more severe or rigid deformities, an arthrodesis may provide a more stable and durable correction. During this procedure, the damaged joint surfaces are removed and the bones are fused together in a straight position.
- K-wire fixation — a temporary surgical pin that is removed several weeks after surgery, or
- Toe implants — specialized internal implants that remain inside the toe and eliminate the need for an external pin in many cases.
Restore Comfort to Every Step
Hammertoes are a common foot deformity that can become progressively more painful if left untreated. Whether your treatment involves supportive footwear, custom orthotics, or surgical correction, our goal is to relieve pain, improve function, and help you return to comfortable daily activities.