Definition
A hammer toe is a toe that is contracted at the PIP joint (middle joint in the toe), and can lead to severe pressure and pain. Ligaments and tendons that have tightened cause the toe’s joints to curl downwards. Hammer toes may occur in any toe, except the big toe. There is often discomfort at the top part of the toe that is rubbing against the shoe.

Hammer toes are classified based on the mobility of the toe joints. There are two types - flexible and rigid. In a flexible hammer toe, the joint has the ability to move. This type of hammer toe can be straightened manually. A rigid hammer toe does not have that same ability to move. Movement is very limited and can be extremely painful. This sometimes causes foot movement to become restricted leading to extra stress at the ball-of-the-foot, and possibly causing pain and the development of corns and calluses.

Cause
Hammer toes result from a muscle imbalance which causes the ligaments and tendons to become unnaturally tight. This results in the joint curling downwards. Arthritis can also lead to many different forefoot deformities, including hammer toes.

Treatment & Prevention
Changing the type of footwear worn is a very important step in the treatment of hammer toes. When choosing a shoe, make sure the toe box (toe area) is high and broad, and can accommodate the hammer toes. A shoe with a high, broad toe box will provide enough room in the forefoot area so that there is less friction against the toes.

Other conservative treatments include using forefoot products designed to relieve hammer toes, such as hammer toe crests and hammer toe splints. These devices will help hold down the hammer toe and provide relief to the forefoot. Gel toe shields and gel toe caps are also recommended to eliminate friction between the shoe and the toe, while providing comfort and lubrication.

If the problem persists, consult your foot doctor.

Products For Immediate Relief
A hammer toe is a toe that is contracted at the PIP joint (middle joint in the toe), potentially leading to severe pressure and pain. This condition is caused by ligaments and tendons that have tightened. Hammer toes may occur in any toe except the big toe, and there is often discomfort at the top part of the toe due to rubbing against the shoe.

Hammer Toe Splint (2 Loops)

Hammer Toe Splints (2 loops) were designed by a doctor with an extra loop to relieve the discomfort of hammer toes. Cushions ball-of-foot and the adjustable elastic rings slide over your toes for comfortable realignment. Designed to fit in all footwear styles.

Hammer Toe Crest

Hammer Toe Crests help relieve pain caused by hammer toes. The elastic sling rests around your 2nd or 3rd toe, holding the toes in a relaxed position and relieving pressure.

Gel Toe Crest

Gel Toe Crests offer relief from pain caused by hammer, claw, or mallet toes. The crest fits comfortably between the ballof- your-foot and toes, relieving pressure from the toe area.

Gel Toe Shield

Gel Toe Shields relieve pain caused by friction, blisters, and corns, and protect your toes from rubbing against each other and your shoes. The Gel softens and lubricates your skin. Dermatologist tested.

Gel Toe Cap

Gel Toe Caps are clinically proven to provide immediate relief from common toe problems, including ingrown toenails, hammer toes, and claw toes. Tested by dermatologists, the unique Gel moistens and softens your skin.