Hammer Toes

Hammer toes and claw toes are different conditions, though they are often confused with one another. Both can affect any of the toes. The big toe has two phalanges, while the other toes have three.

With claw toes, the first two joints of a toe bend in unnatural angles, causing the tip of the toe to press down against the ground.

With hammer toes, the first joint of the toe bends downward while the second joint hyperextends upward.

What causes hammer toes?

There is no single cause of hammer toes. However, they can be linked to various foot deformities such as hallux valgus (a bunion), a fallen forefoot arch, or a toe that is too long in relation to the others. Wearing ill-fitting shoes, particularly those that are too tight or too small, can also contribute.

Hammer toes are more likely to occur with aging, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, or arterial disease. They can often be corrected using orthotic insoles.

What symptoms are associated with hammer toes?

Pain is the most common symptom. This is caused by the formation of corns and calluses on the toe knuckles and tips due to the abnormal toe position. Wearing shoes can significantly worsen this pain, especially if pressure is applied to the affected areas.

How are hammer toes treated?

At Podobrace, we have effective solutions for hammer toes!

Treatment for hammer and claw toes begins with proper footwear advice. In many cases, supportive insoles are used—these are an effective and affordable solution for hammer toes. If pain persists despite these adjustments, surgery may be considered.

Hammer toe surgery

During surgery for a hammer toe, the joint between the first and second phalanges is removed, and a portion of the first phalanx may also be taken out. If the toe is fused, the surgeon removes a small piece of bone so that the phalanges can grow together. At Podobrace, we’ve been offering supportive solutions for hammer toes for years—and they remain a trusted and widely used option.