What is a Hammer Toe?

What is a Hammer Toe?

A hammer toe is a contracture, or bending, of the toe at the first joint of the digit, called the proximal interphalangeal joint. This bending causes the toe to appear like an upside-down V when looked at from the side. Any toe can be involved, but the condition usually affects the second through fifth toes, known as the lesser digits. Hammer toes are more common in females than males.

There are two different types:

Flexible Hammer Toes: These hammer toes are less serious because they can be diagnosed and treated while still in the developmental stage. They are called flexible hammer toes because they are still moveable at the joint.

Rigid Hammer Toes: This variety is more developed and more serious than the flexible condition. Rigid hammer toes can be seen in patients with severe arthritis, for example, or in patients who wait too long to seek professional treatment. The tendons in a rigid hammer toe have become tight, and the joint misaligned and immobile, making surgery the usual course of treatment.

The symptoms of a hammer toe include the following:

• Pain at the top of the bent toe upon pressure from footwear
• Formation of corns on the top of the joint
• Redness and swelling at the joint contracture
• Restricted or painful motion of the toe joint
• Pain in the ball of the foot at the base of the affected toe

If pain persists and left untreated, hammer toes tend to become rigid, making non-surgical treatment less of an option.

If you are experiencing pain and seeking medical attention, please call to schedule your appointment today!