Hammer Toe

Definition: a claw-like deformity of a toe, usually the second or third, in which there is flexion of the second and third interphalangeal joints

Medical terminology: hammer toe, claw toe, mallet toe

What is a hammer toe?

Hammertoe is a contracture of the little joints (interphalangeal joints) of the toes and is common in the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes.  The claw-like deformity can cause abnormal pressure on the toe when wearing shoes, causing problems to develop.

Hammertoes usually start out as a flexible deformity with mild to no symptoms that can often be managed with non-invasive measures. Because of the progressive nature of hammertoes, hammertoes get progressively worse over time. If left untreated, hammertoes can become more rigid and will not respond to non-invasive, conservative treatment.

Common symptoms of hammer toes

• Difficulty wearing certain shoes
• Pain or irritation of the affected toe when wearing shoes
• Corns and calluses on the top of the toe, between toes, or on the ball of the foot
• Red, warm, swollen toe or a burning sensation
• Flexed, claw-like bending of the toe
• Open sores (ulcers) may form in more severe cases of hammertoe

What are common causes of a hammer toe?

Muscle/tendon imbalance caused by:

• Poor biomechanics of the foot
• Muscle atrophy (loss of muscle) due to diseases
  • such as Diabetes, Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT)
• Bony changes due to conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis

Ill-fitting footwear

• Toes are forced in a cramped position
• Tight or narrow footwear
• Shoes are too small

Trauma and genetics can also be reasons for having hammer toes.

What is the treatment for hammer toes?

There are several conservative, nonsurgical treatment options. Consult your foot specialist to determine what treatment options will be most effective for you. The Mississauga Foot Clinic can provide the necessary conservative treatment options and incorporate treatment options, such as:

When do I need surgery for a hammer toe?

Non-invasive/conservative treatment usually fails when the hammer toe has become more rigid and painful. When the hammertoe has progressed into a rigid bony deformity, or when a constant open sore has developed, surgery is needed.

Orthopedic surgeons, as well as Podiatrists, are able to take x-rays to determine the degree of the deformities and select the procedure needed to correct the hammer toe. The length of the recovery period will vary depending on the extent of your deformity, the number of toes involved, your age, your activity level, and the procedure performed.