Hammer toe is a deformity that usually affects the second, third, or fourth toes. This condition begins as a slight, flexible bending of the middle joint of the affected toe. As the condition progresses, the deformity becomes more severe and more rigid.
Hammer toes often develop from wearing ill-fitting shoes. Shoes with pointed toes can force the toes into a bent position. Hammer toes can also be caused by a muscle imbalance of the foot. Wearing shoes with pointed toes and high heels on a regular basis can weaken some of the muscles and cause a muscle imbalance in the foot. The toe with the deformity may develop corns and calluses due to where the deformed toe rubs against shoes. In addition to pain caused by corns and calluses, the affected toe may be painful.
Pain relief for hammer toe starts by wearing comfortable shoes that fit properly. Shoes should have wide toe boxes. The individual with hammer toe needs to stop wearing high-heeled shoes. Shoes that are narrow or too tight need to be avoided. Wearing comfortable shoes is not likely to correct the condition, but may slow the progression of the deformity.
Early in this deforming condition, the person may achieve some pain relief by wearing gel orthotic supports and using hammertoe straighteners. There are a variety of straps and cushions available that may help provide pain relief. If corns and calluses have developed, the doctor may recommend treatment or non-medicated pads that are available over-the-counter.
The doctor may recommend specific orthopedics and pain relievers such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). The doctor may suggest exercises to strengthen the affected muscles of the toe and foot. Relief for hammer toe may include surgical intervention if noninvasive procedures fail to correct the condition.
Since hammer toe gets progressively worse, the individual should consult the doctor about the condition as soon as it is noticed. This could decrease the risk of needing surgery to correct the hammer toe. Surgical procedures for correcting hammer toe are done on an outpatient basis. The specific surgical procedure used to correct hammertoe depends on the severity of the condition at the time of surgery.
