What is Hammer Toe?

Normally, your toes point forward. A hammer toe is a type of deformity in which your toe bends or curls downwards. While it can affect any toe on your foot, it most occurs on the second or third toe. Hammer toe may be present at birth, but it’s more usual that it develops over time, typically due to arthritis or wearing poorly-fitted shoes. Hammer toes are classified based on the mobility of the toe joint.

Flexible Hammer Toe

It's possible to straighten a flexible hammer manually as there is still some movement in the toe joint.

Rigid Hammer Toe

A rigid hammer toe is more difficult to treat. Movement is often very limited and painful. Sufferers may compensate for this by placing extra stress on the ball of their foot, which in turn, can lead to the development of corns and calluses.