Hammer Toe

What is it and what are the symptoms?

The toe consists of two joints that allow it to bend at the middle and bottom. A hammer toe occurs when the middle joint becomes dislocated, causing the end of the toe to bend downwards.

It usually affects the second, third or fourth toe, and appears to look like a claw.

A corn may form on the top of the toe, and a callus may form underneath it.

A flexible hammer toe can be manually straightened out while a rigid hammer toe cannot be pulled straight.

What causes them?

A hammertoe occurs when the middle joint is dislocated. The common causes of this are:

• Traumatic injury to the toe.
• Arthritis.
• An high foot arch.
• Wearing ill-fitting shoes.
• Tightened ligaments or tendons in the foot.
• Pressure from a bunion (when the big toe points in towards your second toe).

What is the treatment?

Treating a hammer toe before it becomes ‘rigid’ in position is essential. Orthotics, splints, or wearing shoes with roomy toe-boxes may help non-severe cases of hammer toe. In severe cases, a GP may refer you to a specialist for surgical assessment.

Sheridan Foot Health will undertake a full foot health assessment and a treatment plan will be devised to suit your individual needs and requirements.

Contact the team on 02392 388149 or 07795 522700 for a consultation and treatment.

Without treatment

Pain and walking difficulty may increase, and a permanent deformity may occur. Repeated friction to the tip or the top of the toe may lead to wounds and infection.