How to Straighten Hammer Toes

A hammer toe is a deformity of the second, third or fourth toe. Bent at the middle joint so that the toe resembles a hammer, this foot irregularity is initially flexible and can be corrected rather easily. However, if the hammer toe is left untreated, the cartilage between the joints wears out and the toes lose flexibility and function. Because it can create an unnatural gait, this condition often leads to painful back, hip and knee disorders.

Instructions

• 1

  Obtain treatment for hammer toes when they first begin to develop and are still flexible and adaptable. Without treatment, soft tissue attached to the affected toe begins to tighten, and a rigid deformity eventually develops. At this stage, the toes are fixed in a bent position and cannot be easily straightened.

• 2

  Wear shoes that have soft, roomy "toe boxes." Shoes with deeper toe boxes will keep toes from bunching up, giving them adequate room to lie flat. Sandals may help because of their open structure, eliminating possible pinching or rubbing in the foot area.

• 3

  Visit a podiatrist. Treatments for hammer toe depend on the severity of the deformity. If the tendon is still flexible when the toes first start to buckle, they can be straightened through gentle stretching exercises. If flat feet cause the condition, your podiatrist may use lamb's wool padding or special splints to provide better arch support and help the muscles work together by positioning the toe in its natural straight position.

• 4

  Stretch and strengthen the muscles in your toes. For example, use your toes to pick things up off the floor or lay a towel flat under your feet and use your toes to crumple it. There are also commercially available straps, cushions and non-medicated corn pads that may provide relief by helping the toes lie flat.

• 5

  Consider surgery if the hammer toe is painful or if it becomes uncomfortable to wear shoes. Almost all hammer toe surgeries are outpatient procedures. The Mayo Clinic states that if there is some flexibility in the toe, the doctor may straighten it by making an incision in the toe and releasing the tendon. However, if the toe is rigid, the doctor may cut the tendon and also remove a small piece of bone to allow the connecting toe bones to lie straight. You can usually walk immediately after surgery; however, you may need to wear a surgical shoe for several weeks.