If you’ve been feeling persistent toe pain, especially when wearing shoes or walking, you might be wondering: Could this be hammertoe?
Hammertoe is a common yet often overlooked condition that affects the joints in your toes—usually the second, third, or fourth toe — causing them to bend abnormally. Left untreated, hammertoe can become more rigid and painful over time, interfering with your daily activities.
Let’s walk through the most common symptoms, when to see a podiatrist, and how early treatment can help restore comfort and mobility.
What Is Hammertoe?
Hammertoe occurs when the muscles and tendons around your toe joints become imbalanced, forcing the toe into a bent, hammer-like position. It may start as flexible (you can still straighten the toe manually), but over time, it can become fixed and painful.
Common Causes of Hammertoe:
- Ill-fitting or tight shoes, especially those with a narrow toe box
- Toe injuries or trauma
- Muscle imbalance or nerve issues
- Arthritis or bunions
- Genetics or foot structure abnormalities
Recognizing the Signs: Common Hammertoe Symptoms
Toe pain is often the first red flag—but it's not the only one. Here are the most common symptoms of hammertoe:
1. Visible Bending of the Toe
The most telltale sign is a toe that’s bent downward at the middle joint, resembling a hammer. This can affect one or multiple toes.
2. Pain or Discomfort
You may feel pain:
- When wearing shoes (especially tight or narrow ones)
- While walking or standing for long periods
- When pressure is applied to the toe
3. Corns or Calluses
As the bent toe rubs against footwear, painful corns or calluses often develop on the top of the toe or the ball of the foot.
4. Swelling or Redness
Inflammation around the affected toe joint can lead to redness and tenderness, especially after activity.
5. Restricted Movement
In more advanced cases, you might not be able to straighten the toe at all—indicating a fixed hammertoe.
When to See a Podiatrist
If you’re noticing any of the symptoms above—especially ongoing pain or changes in toe shape—it’s time to consult with a podiatrist. Early intervention can help prevent the condition from worsening and reduce the risk of long-term complications.
At Podiatry Associates of Indiana, we offer specialized care for toe deformities, including both non-surgical and surgical options depending on the severity.
Treatment Options for Hammertoe
The best treatment depends on whether your hammertoe is still flexible or has become rigid:
Conservative Treatments
- Roomy, supportive footwear with a wide toe box
- Custom orthotics to relieve pressure and rebalance your foot
- Toe exercises to improve flexibility and strength
- Padding or splints to protect and realign the toe
Surgical Treatments
If conservative measures aren't effective or the toe is fixed in place, surgical correction may be recommended to restore proper alignment.
Take the Next Step Toward Pain-Free Feet
Hammertoe may start as a minor annoyance, but if ignored, it can lead to significant discomfort and complications. The good news? It’s highly treatable—especially when caught early.
If you’re dealing with toe pain, corns, or difficulty wearing shoes, don’t wait. Request an appointment with our caring podiatry team today and let us help you walk comfortably again.
