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ConditionsAnkle & FootHammertoe
Toe Deformity

HammertoeToe Correction

Comprehensive treatment for hammertoe deformities with conservative and surgical correction options.

Mild-Severe
Severity
Common
Prevalence
Progressive
Timeline
Structural
Category
Overview

Hammertoe is a deformity where one or more toes bend abnormally at the middle joint, resembling a hammer. It most commonly affects the second, third, or fourth toe and can be flexible or rigid.

The condition often develops due to muscle imbalances, ill-fitting shoes, or underlying foot structure problems. Early treatment can prevent progression and maintain toe flexibility.

Severity Levels

Mild

Flexible deformity with minimal symptoms

Symptoms:

  • •Slight toe curling
  • •Occasional discomfort
  • •Mild corn formation

Treatment:

Toe exercises, proper footwear, padding

Prognosis:

Excellent with early intervention

Moderate

Semi-rigid deformity with regular symptoms

Symptoms:

  • •Noticeable toe bend
  • •Regular pain and rubbing
  • •Corn and callus formation

Treatment:

Splints, orthotics, physical therapy

Prognosis:

Good with comprehensive treatment

Severe

Fixed deformity with significant functional impact

Symptoms:

  • •Rigid toe position
  • •Severe pain and ulceration
  • •Difficulty with footwear

Treatment:

Surgical correction often required

Prognosis:

Variable, surgery may be necessary

Treatment Phases
1

Conservative Management

Ongoing

Prevent progression and manage symptoms

Proper footwear with adequate toe room
Toe padding and corn protection
Toe exercises and stretching
Activity modification
2

Active Treatment

6-12 weeks

Improve toe flexibility and function

Toe splints and separators
Custom orthotic devices
Physical therapy for toe mobility
Corticosteroid injections if needed
3

Surgical Consideration

Variable

Correction of rigid deformity

Surgical consultation for severe cases
Tendon release or transfer procedures
Joint fusion for rigid deformities
Post-operative rehabilitation
Exercise Program

Flexibility

Daily, multiple times

Toe Stretches

Gently straighten affected toe with hand

Hold 15 seconds, repeat 10 times

Toe Flexion

Bend and straighten toe actively

10-15 repetitions, 2-3 sets

Toe Extension

Pull toe upward against resistance

Hold 5 seconds, repeat 10 times

Strengthening

Daily

Toe Curls

Curl toes to pick up small objects

10-15 objects, 2-3 sets

Towel Scrunches

Scrunch towel with toes

10-15 repetitions, 2-3 sets

Marble Pick-up

Pick up marbles with affected toe

10-15 marbles, 2-3 sets

Mobility

2-3 times daily

Toe Circles

Move toe in circular motions

10 circles each direction

Toe Spreads

Spread toes apart as wide as possible

Hold 5 seconds, repeat 10 times

Calf Stretch

Stretch calf muscles to reduce toe tension

Hold 30 seconds, repeat 3 times
Risk Factors

Footwear

High heels
Narrow toe box shoes
Poor fitting footwear
Tight socks

Structural

Long second toe
Flat feet
High arches
Muscle imbalances

Medical

Arthritis
Diabetes
Female gender
Family history
Recommended for Hammertoe Relief

Hammertoe Support & Correction Products

Find relief and prevent progression with our specialized toe splints, cushioning pads, and corrective devices designed to straighten and protect your toes.

Recommended Products

Correction & Support

Toe Splints

Straightening and alignment aids

Toe Cushions

Pressure relief and protection

Footwear Solutions

Wide Toe Box Shoes

Proper fitting footwear

Toe Separators

Alignment and spacing aids

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